Fish and fish products provide important trade and livelihoods opportunities in many coastal developing countries. Nearly 40 percent of fish output is traded internationally with an export value of US$ 58.2 billion, making seafood one of the most extensively traded commodities in the world. Exports of fish products from developing countries today comprise 20 percent of agricultural and food-processing exports – more than tropical beverages, nuts, spices, cotton, sugar and confectionary combined. These exports are likely to increase as demand for fish products continues to increase. In addition to providing a significant source of export revenue for developing countries, the fishing sector also constitutes a vital component of domestic food intake and an important provider of local livelihoods.