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Whole Tilapia Price Guide: Cost per Kg, Box Size & Bulk Tips
I still remember my first phone call with a customer from Africa. He said, "John, I don’t just need tilapia – I need tilapia that will keep my customers coming back." It stuck with me. If you’re like him, this guide will help you understand tilapia prices – not just the numbers, but why* prices move
The price of whole frozen tilapia generally depends on size, processing, and origin. The price will vary depending on the crystal sugar and processing method (gutted or scaled).
Let me break this down step by step—so you can buy smarter.
Step 1: What’s the current price range?
Prices feel like the ocean tide—always moving. But here’s what’s stable right now.
For importers in Abidjan, Africa, sourcing from China, 80% N.W. $1.23-1.48/kg CFR covers most whole tilapia.
Why prices wiggle (and how to catch the best wave)
When I visited a fish farm last month, the owner showed me something obvious but overlooked: bigger tilapia eat more feed but grow slower.
That’s why 800g fish cost 30% more per kg than 300g—they take double the time to raise.
Step 2: How do sizes/grades change the price?
I want 80% N.W. 500-800 tilapia, 10 kg/box. The price will be different depending on the number of tilapia you order.
More tilapia means smaller fish and less tilapia means more fish.
Step 3: What affects price changes?
Size is essential, but two other factors can quietly affect your profits: Processing and Ice on the fish.
Gutted tilapia and descaled tilapia both affect price
100% net weight and 80% net weight are also different prices
Step 4: Our port service (why it saves time and effort)
We once had a customer stranded for several weeks because he could not book a ship and missed the hot season. Now, we take care of all matters from factory to dock shipment:
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Truck transportation from the factory to Xiamen Port.
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Real-time loading photos.
Conclusion
Tilapia pricing isn’t just about $/kg—it’s about how much edible fish arrives at your warehouse. Stick to clear sizing, minimal ice, and a partner who loads what they promise. (And yes, we do that.)
Would you be able to give me a real quote? WhatsApp me photos of the fish sizes you want—I’ll reply within 2 hours with live factory prices.*
