Frozen Sardine Whole Round from Japan: Maiwashi (マイワシ) Sourcing Notes
Japanese sardine — Sardinops melanostictus, known as maiwashi (真鰯) — is one of Japan's most commercially important pelagic species. Vietnam imports frozen whole-round maiwashi from Japan for local consumption and re-exports processed forms to regional markets. This article explains the product and how I source it for buyers looking for Japanese sardine through a Vietnam-based supply chain.
Product Overview
Species: Pacific sardine (Sardinops melanostictus) — "ma-iwashi" (真鰯), distinct from smaller urume-iwashi or katakuchi-iwashi
Catch origin: Hokuriku (北陸) region — Ishikawa, Toyama, and Fukui prefectures — and Northern Japan (Hokkaido, Tohoku). Hokuriku sardines are noted for higher fat content during peak season (September–December), making them preferred for sashimi-grade and marinated applications.
Forms available:
- Whole round IQF (most common for export)
- Cleaned (gutted, headless) IQF
- Frozen block (lower price, used for processing input)
Typical Specifications
| Parameter | Range |
|---|---|
| Size | 15–20cm (small), 20–25cm (medium), 25cm+ (large) |
| Fat content | 10–22% depending on season and fishing ground |
| Freezing | IQF at -40°C at sea or shoreside |
| Cold storage | -18°C or below |
| Origin certificate | Japanese health certificate / EU-listed facility |
Price Context (2025–2026)
Japanese sardine prices have been volatile due to catch fluctuations under Pacific Decadal Oscillation effects. FOB Japan prices for IQF whole-round (20–25cm, peak fat season):
- $1.20–$1.80/kg during abundance periods
- $2.00–$2.80/kg during tight supply years
Freight Japan→Vietnam: $60–90/MT by reefer vessel.
Why Source Through Vietnam
Several Vietnamese processors in Ho Chi Minh City and Bình Dương maintain sourcing relationships with Japanese fishing companies and trading houses. They can import, repackage, or lightly process (headed/gutted) Japanese sardine for re-export to Southeast Asian buyers who do not have direct Japan trading relationships.
If you're a buyer looking for Japanese sardine with flexible minimum quantities or Vietnam-based payment terms, contact me to discuss options.
Sourcing frozen sardine from Vietnam?
I work with international buyers on sourcing, supplier evaluation, and factory inspection. If you're evaluating Vietnamese suppliers for this category, I can help you avoid the common pitfalls.
Start a sourcing inquiry