Download Sample
Add to CartGlobal Crustacean Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Type;
Crabs, Shrimps, Lobsters, and Others.By Origin;
Capture and Aquaculture.By Distribution Channel;
Business-To-Business, Business-To-Consumer.By End Use;
Retail, FoodService Industry, Commercial, Others.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Crustacean Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Crustacean Market was valued at USD 123,532.92 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 154,007.04 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.2%.
The global crustacean market represents a diverse and dynamic sector within the broader seafood industry, encompassing a wide variety of species such as shrimp, lobster, crab, and crayfish. Crustaceans are prized for their delicate flavors, succulent texture, and nutritional value, making them a popular choice among consumers worldwide. From traditional delicacies to gourmet cuisine, crustaceans feature prominently in culinary traditions across cultures and regions, driving demand and market growth.
This introduction seeks to provide an overview of the global crustacean market, highlighting key trends, drivers, challenges, and opportunities shaping its trajectory. As the global population continues to grow and incomes rise, dietary preferences are evolving towards healthier and more diverse protein sources, including seafood. Crustaceans, with their high protein content, low fat levels, and abundance of essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, are increasingly recognized for their role in supporting a balanced and nutritious diet.
One of the primary drivers of growth in the global crustacean market is the increasing demand for seafood products, driven by changing consumer lifestyles, dietary habits, and preferences. As consumers become more health-conscious and environmentally aware, there is a growing preference for natural, sustainable, and ethically sourced seafood options. Crustaceans, often associated with premium quality, freshness, and culinary versatility, are well-positioned to capitalize on these trends and cater to discerning consumer tastes.
Globalization and international trade play a significant role in shaping the global crustacean market. Rapid urbanization, globalization of food supply chains, and improvements in transportation and logistics have facilitated the expansion of crustacean trade networks, enabling producers to access new markets and consumers to enjoy a diverse range of crustacean products year-round. Countries with abundant marine resources, such as Thailand, China, India, Indonesia, and Ecuador, dominate global crustacean production and exports, supplying a significant share of the world's seafood demand.
The global crustacean market also faces challenges, including environmental sustainability concerns, supply chain vulnerabilities, and regulatory complexities. Overfishing, habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change pose threats to crustacean populations and ecosystems, necessitating concerted efforts to promote responsible fishing practices, marine conservation, and aquaculture development. Additionally, fluctuations in market prices, currency exchange rates, trade policies, and food safety regulations can impact the profitability and competitiveness of crustacean producers and exporters.
The global crustacean market presents a mix of opportunities and challenges driven by evolving consumer preferences, globalization, and sustainability imperatives. As demand for seafood continues to rise, stakeholders across the crustacean value chain, including producers, processors, traders, retailers, and policymakers, must collaborate to ensure the long-term viability and resilience of the industry. By embracing innovation, sustainability, and market-oriented approaches, the global crustacean market can thrive in a rapidly changing and interconnected world, delivering value to consumers, communities, and the environment.
Global Crustacean Market Recent Developments
-
In February 2023, Indian finance minister announced to reduce customs duty on shrimp feed to promote exports. Aquaculture companies, shrimp farmers, and other farmers will get benefitted from it due to a reduction in the major input cost.
Segement Analysis
The segmentation by type in the seafood market includes crabs, shrimps, lobsters, and others, each catering to unique consumer preferences and culinary applications. Crabs and lobsters are highly sought after in gourmet cuisines, prized for their delicate flavor and versatility in preparation. Shrimps, being more widely available, are a staple in global diets, favored for their nutritional value and ease of cooking. Other seafood varieties, such as crayfish or prawns, also contribute significantly to the seafood industry, offering diverse options for consumers and chefs alike.
By origin, seafood is classified into capture and aquaculture sources. Capture seafood refers to species harvested from their natural habitats, such as oceans, rivers, and lakes. This traditional method is crucial for maintaining cultural and economic practices in many coastal regions. Aquaculture, on the other hand, involves farming seafood under controlled conditions, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality products. The growth of aquaculture addresses the rising global demand for seafood while reducing pressure on wild fish stocks, making it a sustainable alternative.
Distribution channels for seafood include business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) models. B2B channels involve bulk sales to wholesalers, restaurants, and retailers, ensuring a steady supply chain for commercial operations. The B2C channel caters directly to individual consumers through supermarkets, specialty stores, and online platforms. End-use segmentation further highlights the market's diversity, with seafood serving various sectors such as retail, the foodservice industry, and commercial uses like processing and exports. These segments collectively reflect the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the seafood market, driven by evolving consumer preferences and global demand.
Global Crustacean Segement Analysis
In this report, the Global Crustacean Market has been segmented by Type,Origin,Distribution Channel, End Use, and Geography.
Global Crustacean Market, Segmentation by Type
The Global Crustacean Market has been segmented by Type into Crabs, Shrimps, Lobsters and Others.
Crabs, characterized by their sweet, succulent meat, represent a significant segment within the market. Whether enjoyed as crab legs, crab cakes, or in soups and stews, crabs hold a prominent place in seafood cuisine globally. Shrimps, another major category, are renowned for their tender texture and mild flavor. From grilled shrimp skewers to shrimp scampi pasta, these versatile crustaceans are beloved by consumers worldwide and feature prominently in a wide range of dishes across different cuisines.
Lobsters, often considered a luxury seafood item, occupy a distinct niche within the crustacean market. With their rich, buttery taste and firm texture, lobsters are prized for special occasions and fine dining experiences. Whether steamed, grilled, or served as lobster rolls, these crustaceans command premium prices and are sought after by discerning consumers. Beyond crabs, shrimps, and lobsters, the market encompasses various other crustacean species, including crayfish, prawns, langoustines, and more. Each species offers its unique flavor profile, texture, and culinary applications, catering to diverse consumer tastes and preferences.
The segmentation of the global crustacean market by type reflects the cultural and regional variations in seafood consumption patterns. While certain crustacean species may be favored in specific regions or cuisines, the availability of a wide range of options allows for culinary diversity and experimentation. This segmentation also underscores the importance of sustainability and responsible sourcing practices in the crustacean industry. By offering consumers a variety of responsibly harvested or farmed crustacean options, stakeholders can meet demand while ensuring the long-term health of marine ecosystems and fisheries. Overall, the segmentation by type provides insights into the breadth and depth of the global crustacean market, highlighting the rich culinary heritage and consumer preferences that drive its growth and evolution.
Global Crustacean Market, Segmentation by Origin
The Global Crustacean Market has been segmented by Origin into Capture and Aquaculture.
Capture fisheries involve the harvesting of crustaceans from their natural habitats in oceans, seas, rivers, and lakes. This traditional method of crustacean procurement contributes a significant portion of the global supply, particularly for species like crabs, shrimps, and lobsters. However, capture fisheries face sustainability challenges, including overfishing, habitat destruction, and bycatch of non-target species, prompting efforts to improve fisheries management and reduce environmental impacts. On the other hand, aquaculture, or mariculture, involves the farming of crustaceans in controlled environments, such as ponds, tanks, and cages. This method of production has become increasingly important in meeting the growing demand for crustaceans, offering advantages such as year-round availability, species diversification, and reduced pressure on wild stocks. Crustacean aquaculture encompasses a variety of species, including shrimp, prawns, crayfish, and others, each adapted to specific farming conditions and production systems.
Segmentation by origin highlights the dual nature of the crustacean market, reflecting the interplay between wild-caught and farmed products. While capture fisheries provide a direct link to natural ecosystems and marine biodiversity, aquaculture offers opportunities for controlled and sustainable production, mitigating pressure on wild stocks and supporting livelihoods in coastal communities. Both sourcing methods have their advantages and challenges, and the choice between wild-caught and farmed crustaceans often depends on factors such as consumer preferences, market demand, sustainability considerations, and regulatory frameworks. The segmentation by origin underscores the importance of responsible sourcing practices and sustainable management of crustacean resources to ensure the long-term viability of the industry. By promoting sustainable fishing practices, reducing environmental impacts, and supporting responsible aquaculture initiatives, stakeholders in the crustacean market can meet consumer demand for high-quality, ethically sourced seafood while safeguarding marine ecosystems and fisheries for future generations.
Global Crustacean Market, Segmentation by Distribution Channel
The Global Crustacean Market has been segmented by Distribution Channel into Business-To-Business, Business-To-Consumer.
The B2B channel primarily involves wholesale transactions between producers, distributors, and businesses such as restaurants, hotels, and food manufacturers. This channel ensures bulk supply, consistency, and efficient distribution, meeting the demands of large-scale operations that rely on steady access to seafood products for their services. The B2C channel focuses on direct interactions with individual consumers through retail outlets, specialty seafood markets, and e-commerce platforms. This segment has grown significantly with the rise of online shopping and increased consumer interest in sourcing fresh, high-quality seafood for home consumption. Retailers in the B2C channel often prioritize convenience, offering packaged, pre-cleaned, and ready-to-cook products that cater to busy households and health-conscious individuals seeking nutritious meal options. The balance between B2B and B2C channels ensures that the seafood market can cater to both large-scale commercial needs and individual consumer preferences. While B2B channels drive volume and efficiency in the supply chain, B2C channels enhance accessibility and personalization, allowing consumers to explore diverse seafood options. Together, these channels contribute to the growth and sustainability of the seafood industry by addressing the demands of varied market segments.
Global Crustacean Market, Segmentation by End Use
The Global Crustacean Market has been segmented by End Use into Retail, FoodService Industry, Commercial, Others.
The retail segment caters directly to individual consumers, offering a variety of seafood options through supermarkets, specialty stores, and online platforms. This segment emphasizes convenience, providing packaged and processed seafood products that are easy to prepare. With the growing trend of home cooking and health-conscious diets, the retail market has seen increased demand for high-quality, sustainably sourced seafood. The foodservice industry is a significant driver of the seafood market, supplying restaurants, hotels, catering services, and other establishments. This segment relies on consistent and bulk supplies of seafood to create diverse and innovative dishes for their menus. Seafood is a popular choice in the foodservice sector due to its versatility and appeal across global cuisines. The demand in this segment often influences market trends, particularly for premium seafood items such as lobsters, crabs, and shellfish. Commercial applications include seafood processing for ready-to-eat meals, frozen products, and exports. This segment plays a crucial role in the global trade of seafood, ensuring that products meet international quality standards. Other uses may include aquariums, research, or bait for the fishing industry. Together, these end-use segments highlight the diverse applications of seafood, contributing to its economic importance and its integral role in meeting the nutritional and culinary needs of consumers worldwide.
Global Crustacean Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Crustacean Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Crustacean Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
North America represents another key market for crustaceans, particularly for species like lobster and shrimp. The United States and Canada have thriving seafood industries, with coastal regions renowned for their high-quality crustacean products. Lobster fishing in the Atlantic provinces of Canada and the New England states of the United States is a centuries-old tradition, supplying premium crustaceans to domestic and international markets. Similarly, the Gulf Coast region is known for its shrimp fisheries, contributing to the vibrant seafood culture in the southern United States.
Europe is also a significant consumer and importer of crustaceans, with countries like France, Spain, and the United Kingdom leading demand for premium seafood products. European consumers have a penchant for high-value crustaceans like lobster and langoustine, often served in upscale restaurants and seafood markets. Moreover, European countries have stringent food safety and quality standards, influencing sourcing decisions and market preferences in the crustacean industry.
Latin America, particularly countries like Brazil, Mexico, and Ecuador, contributes to the global crustacean market through both capture fisheries and aquaculture production. Brazil, for instance, has a vibrant shrimp farming industry, supplying crustaceans to domestic and international markets. Additionally, coastal regions in Mexico and Central America are known for their rich biodiversity and abundant crustacean resources, supporting local fisheries and seafood trade.
The Middle East and Africa represent emerging markets for crustaceans, driven by increasing consumer demand, economic development, and investments in aquaculture infrastructure. Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar are significant importers of crustacean products, catering to the preferences of affluent consumers and expatriate communities. In Africa, countries with coastal regions, such as Egypt, South Africa, and Mozambique, are exploring opportunities to develop their crustacean industries and tap into global markets.
The segmentation of the global crustacean market by geography highlights the diverse nature of the industry, with each region contributing unique products, production methods, and market dynamics. By understanding regional preferences, regulatory frameworks, and consumer trends, stakeholders in the crustacean market can capitalize on opportunities for growth, market expansion, and sustainable development across different regions worldwide.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Crustacean Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers :
- Changing Consumer Preferences
- Rising Global Population and Income Levels
- Globalization and International Trade
-
Culinary Versatility and Gourmet Appeal - The culinary versatility and gourmet appeal of crustaceans play a pivotal role in driving their popularity and demand in global markets. Crustaceans, including crabs, shrimps, lobsters, and other species, offer a spectrum of flavors, textures, and culinary applications that appeal to diverse tastes and preferences. Their delicate and succulent meat lends itself to a myriad of cooking methods, from grilling and steaming to boiling, frying, and baking. This versatility allows chefs and home cooks alike to create an endless array of dishes, spanning appetizers, main courses, soups, salads, and even desserts.Crustaceans are prized ingredients in haute cuisine and gourmet dining experiences, commanding premium prices and elevating culinary creations to new heights. Lobsters, in particular, are synonymous with luxury and indulgence, often served in upscale restaurants and fine dining establishments as the centerpiece of decadent dishes like lobster thermidor, lobster bisque, and lobster tail with drawn butter. The rich, buttery flavor and firm texture of lobster meat make it a favorite among gastronomes and connoisseurs seeking an exquisite dining experience.
Shrimps and crabs are celebrated for their versatility and adaptability to various cooking styles and flavor profiles. From classic dishes like shrimp scampi and crab cakes to innovative fusion cuisines that blend traditional techniques with modern twists, these crustaceans offer endless possibilities for culinary exploration and experimentation. Their subtle sweetness and ability to absorb flavors make them ideal canvases for creative cooking, inspiring chefs to push the boundaries of gastronomy and invent new culinary delights.Beyond their role in haute cuisine, crustaceans also feature prominently in street food, casual dining, and everyday cooking traditions around the world. Whether enjoyed as street food snacks like shrimp tempura and crab sushi rolls or as comfort foods like shrimp po'boys and crab macaroni and cheese, crustaceans have a universal appeal that transcends cultural boundaries and culinary traditions. Their availability in a variety of forms, including fresh, frozen, canned, and prepared products, further enhances their accessibility and popularity among consumers of all backgrounds.The culinary versatility and gourmet appeal of crustaceans contribute to their enduring popularity and market demand worldwide. From luxurious lobster dinners to humble crab boils, these cherished seafood delicacies enrich dining experiences, inspire culinary creativity, and bring people together around the table to savor the pleasures of good food and shared memories. Whether enjoyed in Michelin-starred restaurants or neighborhood seafood shacks, crustaceans continue to captivate the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts everywhere, making them an indispensable part of the global culinary landscape.
Restraints :
- Environmental Sustainability Concerns
- Regulatory Constraints and Compliance Requirements
- Trade Barriers and Tariffs
-
Supply Chain Vulnerabilities and Disruptions - Supply chain vulnerabilities and disruptions present significant challenges to the global crustacean market, impacting producers, processors, traders, and consumers alike. Several factors contribute to these vulnerabilities, including natural disasters, disease outbreaks, logistical challenges, and regulatory constraints.One of the primary vulnerabilities in the crustacean supply chain is the susceptibility to natural disasters and environmental events. Coastal regions, where many crustacean fisheries and aquaculture operations are located, are prone to hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones, and other extreme weather events. These events can damage infrastructure, disrupt fishing activities, and cause loss of life and property. For aquaculture operations, severe weather events can lead to the loss of stock, damage to ponds or cages, and contamination of water bodies, affecting production levels and supply chain continuity.Disease outbreaks pose another significant risk to the crustacean supply chain, particularly in aquaculture settings where high-density farming practices create favorable conditions for pathogen transmission. Diseases such as white spot syndrome virus (WSSV), infectious myonecrosis virus (IMNV), and Taura syndrome virus (TSV) can devastate shrimp farms, leading to mass mortalities and economic losses. Disease outbreaks not only impact the affected farms directly but can also trigger market disruptions, as consumers may become wary of purchasing shrimp products amid health concerns.
Logistical challenges, including transportation bottlenecks, port closures, and disruptions in cold chain infrastructure, further exacerbate supply chain vulnerabilities. Crustaceans, being highly perishable, require careful handling and temperature control throughout the supply chain to maintain freshness and quality. Any disruptions to transportation networks or cold storage facilities can lead to delays, spoilage, and product losses, affecting both domestic and international trade.Regulatory constraints and trade barriers can create additional vulnerabilities in the crustacean supply chain. Import/export regulations, sanitary and phytosanitary standards, and certification requirements vary across countries and regions, creating complexities and administrative burdens for exporters and importers. Non-compliance with regulatory requirements can result in product rejections, delays in customs clearance, and financial penalties, hindering smooth flow of goods along the supply chain.Addressing supply chain vulnerabilities and disruptions requires a multi-faceted approach involving risk assessment, contingency planning, and collaboration among stakeholders. Proactive measures such as diversification of sourcing locations, investment in disaster-resistant infrastructure, and implementation of biosecurity protocols can help mitigate risks associated with natural disasters and disease outbreaks. Additionally, improving logistics and cold chain management, enhancing traceability systems, and streamlining regulatory processes can enhance supply chain resilience and responsiveness to market dynamics.Mmanaging supply chain vulnerabilities and disruptions is essential for ensuring the stability and sustainability of the global crustacean market. By addressing these challenges through collaborative efforts and innovative solutions, stakeholders can minimize disruptions, protect livelihoods, and meet the growing demand for high-quality and responsibly sourced crustacean products in domestic and international markets.
Opportunities :
- Growing Demand for Sustainable Seafood
- Expansion of Aquaculture Production
-
Value Addition and Product Differentiation - Value addition and product differentiation present significant opportunities for stakeholders in the global crustacean market to enhance competitiveness, capture higher margins, and meet evolving consumer preferences. These strategies involve adding value to crustacean products through processing, packaging, and branding initiatives that differentiate them from commoditized offerings and create unique selling propositions in the market.One avenue for value addition in the crustacean market is the development of value-added products that cater to convenience-seeking consumers and offer enhanced culinary experiences. This can include pre-packaged and ready-to-cook crustacean products such as marinated shrimp skewers, crab cakes, lobster tails with seasoned butter, or shrimp cocktail kits. By providing consumers with convenient and easy-to-prepare options, stakeholders can tap into busy lifestyles and drive consumption beyond traditional meal occasions.Product differentiation plays a crucial role in capturing niche market segments and appealing to specific consumer preferences and dietary requirements. Stakeholders can differentiate crustacean products based on factors such as size, species, flavor profiles, processing methods, and sustainability certifications. For example, offering premium varieties of lobster or shrimp, such as Maine lobster or wild-caught Gulf shrimp, can target discerning consumers who prioritize quality and authenticity. Similarly, emphasizing sustainable sourcing practices, organic certifications, or traceability initiatives can appeal to environmentally conscious consumers seeking ethically sourced seafood options.
Packaging and presentation also contribute to value addition and product differentiation in the crustacean market. Premium packaging materials, attractive labeling, and innovative designs can enhance shelf appeal and communicate quality, freshness, and authenticity to consumers. Additionally, investing in technologies such as modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) or vacuum-sealing can extend the shelf life of crustacean products, reduce waste, and improve overall product quality and freshness perception.Branding initiatives and marketing campaigns play a crucial role in establishing a differentiated identity and building brand loyalty in the crustacean market. Creating compelling brand stories, leveraging product certifications and endorsements, and engaging with consumers through digital and social media platforms can enhance brand visibility and strengthen consumer trust and loyalty. Branding efforts that emphasize factors such as heritage, sustainability commitments, and culinary inspiration can resonate with target audiences and drive purchase decisions in a competitive market landscape.Value addition and product differentiation strategies offer opportunities for stakeholders in the crustacean market to create unique value propositions, expand market reach, and enhance consumer satisfaction. By investing in innovation, branding, and customer-centric approaches, stakeholders can unlock new avenues for growth, differentiate themselves from competitors, and position crustacean products as premium offerings in the global seafood marketplace.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Crustacean Market include :
- Nippon Suisan Kaisha, Ltd.
- High Liner Foods Inc.
- Royal Greenland A/S
- DNI Group LLC
- Sirena A/S
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Type
- Market Snapshot, By Origin
- Market Snapshot, By Distribution Channel
- Market Snapshot, By End Use
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Crustacean Market Trends
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Changing Consumer Preferences
- Rising Global Population and Income Levels
- Globalization and International Trade
- Culinary Versatility and Gourmet Appeal
- Restraints
- Environmental Sustainability Concerns
- Regulatory Constraints and Compliance Requirements
- Trade Barriers and Tariffs
- Supply Chain Vulnerabilities and Disruptions
- Opportunities
- Growing Demand for Sustainable Seafood
- Expansion of Aquaculture Production
- Value Addition and Product Differentiation
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
-
Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Trends
- Global Crustacean Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Crabs
- Shrimps
- Lobsters
- Others
-
Global Crustacean Market, By Origin, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Capture
- Aquaculture
- Global Crustacean Market, By Distribution Channel, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Business-To-Business
- Business-To-Consumer
- Global Crustacean Market, By End Use, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Retail
- FoodService Industry
- Commercial
- Others
- Global Crustacean Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia/New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Global Crustacean Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Nippon Suisan Kaisha, Ltd.
- High Liner Foods Inc.
- Royal Greenland A/S
- DNI Group LLC
- Sirena A/S
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market