Global Seafood Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

The Global Seafood Market has been segmented by type, form, and application, each influencing market trends and growth. In terms of type, the seafood market is primarily divided into fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and others. Fish, particularly species like salmon, tuna, and tilapia, holds the largest share of the market due to its widespread consumption and versatility in various cuisines. Crustaceans, such as shrimp, prawns, and lobster, are also in high demand, especially in regions with a strong seafood culture like Asia and North America. Mollusks, including oysters, clams, and mussels, are consumed globally, particularly in fine dining and gourmet markets. The others category includes less common seafood varieties such as seaweed and aquatic plants, which are becoming increasingly popular due to their health benefits and eco-friendly nature.

The market is also segmented by form, which includes fresh and processed seafood. Fresh seafood is in high demand, especially in local markets and for direct consumption at restaurants, offering consumers the taste and nutritional benefits of unaltered products. However, processed seafood, which includes frozen, canned, and dried seafood, has experienced significant growth due to its convenience, longer shelf life, and ease of storage and transportation. The growing demand for processed seafood is fueled by busy lifestyles and the increasing popularity of ready-to-eat and packaged food products. The processed segment also caters to regions where fresh seafood availability is limited, making it an essential part of the global seafood supply chain.

The application of seafood is another key factor shaping the market, with segmentation into retail, institutions, and foodservice. The retail segment, which includes grocery stores, supermarkets, and online platforms, is the largest, driven by consumers purchasing seafood for home cooking. The institutions segment, which involves educational institutions, hospitals, and corporate cafeterias, contributes to steady demand, particularly for affordable and nutritious meal options. The foodservice industry, which includes restaurants, hotels, and catering services, represents a significant portion of the market, as seafood is a staple in fine dining and specialty cuisines worldwide. These segments highlight the diverse ways in which seafood is consumed across different sectors, driving the growth of the global seafood market. As consumer preferences shift toward more sustainable, healthy, and convenient options, all these segments are expected to expand further.

Global Seafood Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Seafood Market has been segmented by Type, Form, Application and Geography.

Global Seafood Market, Segmentation by Type

The Global Seafood Market has been segmented by Type into Fish, Crustaceans, Mollusca and Others.

Fish, being the most prominent category, encompasses numerous species sourced from both freshwater and marine environments. From popular choices like salmon, tuna, and cod to more niche varieties such as tilapia and mackerel, the fish category caters to various culinary preferences and dietary needs. With its versatility and nutritional value, fish remains a staple in many cuisines globally.

Crustaceans form another significant segment within the seafood market, comprising creatures like shrimp, lobster, and crab. These marine arthropods are prized for their succulent meat and unique flavors, often considered delicacies in numerous cultures. Whether served as whole specimens or utilized in dishes ranging from soups to stir-fries, crustaceans hold a prominent place in gastronomy worldwide.

Including creatures like oysters, clams, and scallops, represent another distinct category in the seafood market. Known for their diverse textures and subtle flavors, mollusks offer a range of culinary possibilities. Whether consumed raw as part of a seafood platter or incorporated into pasta dishes and chowders, mollusks contribute to the rich tapestry of seafood-based cuisine globally.

The segmentation of the global seafood market by type highlights the diversity and richness of available products. Whether it's fish, crustaceans, or mollusks, each category offers unique flavors, textures, and culinary experiences, catering to the preferences of consumers worldwide.

Global Seafood Market, Segmentation by Form

The Global Seafood Market has been segmented by Form into Fresh and Processed.

The fresh seafood segment remains a prominent driver of the market, as consumers seek products that offer the natural, unaltered taste and nutritional benefits of seafood. Fresh seafood is highly favored in local markets and high-end restaurants, where quality and freshness are paramount. It is especially popular in regions with access to coastal areas or well-developed seafood supply chains, allowing for quick delivery from the ocean to the table. Fresh seafood is also a key component in home cooking, with consumers preferring the versatility it offers in preparing various types of dishes.

On the other hand, the processed seafood segment has experienced significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for convenience and longer shelf life. Processed seafood includes frozen, canned, dried, and smoked products, which offer consumers the ability to enjoy seafood even in areas far from coastal regions or in off-seasons when fresh options are less available. The rise of frozen seafood, in particular, has made it more accessible, allowing it to be stored for longer periods without spoiling. Canned seafood, such as tuna and sardines, continues to be a popular choice for its convenience, affordability, and ease of use. As consumers increasingly lead busy lives, processed seafood's ability to provide ready-to-eat options that maintain the flavor and nutritional value of seafood has made it a go-to option in many households and foodservice establishments. Additionally, the growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly food choices has also spurred the development of processed seafood that meets these consumer concerns. Overall, the segmentation into fresh and processed forms highlights the versatility of the seafood market, catering to a broad range of consumer needs.

Global Seafood Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Seafood Market has been segmented by Application into Retail, Institutions and Food Service.

One significant application segment is the food industry, where seafood serves as a staple protein source for millions worldwide. From fish fillets to shrimp, the food sector utilizes seafood in various culinary creations, catering to both local and international palates. Additionally, the growing trend of healthy eating has propelled seafood consumption, with consumers increasingly opting for nutritious options like salmon and tuna.

Another vital application of seafood lies in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, certain seafood varieties offer a plethora of health benefits. As a result, pharmaceutical companies extract essential oils and compounds from seafood for supplements and medicinal purposes. These products target various health concerns, including heart health, joint inflammation, and cognitive function, contributing to the expansive reach of the seafood market beyond traditional culinary boundaries.

The cosmetic industry has recognized the potential of seafood-derived ingredients in skincare formulations. Marine collagen, extracted from fish scales and skin, has gained traction as a natural anti-aging agent, promoting skin elasticity and hydration. Similarly, marine-derived enzymes and extracts are incorporated into cosmetics for their moisturizing, rejuvenating, and antioxidant properties. This diversification of applications underscores the versatility of seafood beyond dietary consumption, driving innovation and market growth across industries.

Global Seafood Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Seafood Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Seafood Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

The global seafood market is intricately woven into the fabric of various geographical regions, each contributing to its diversity and dynamics. In Asia-Pacific, encompassing countries like China, Japan, and India, seafood holds a significant cultural and economic value. With abundant coastlines and a rich tradition of fishing, this region dominates both production and consumption. China, particularly, stands out as the world's largest producer and exporter of seafood, driving substantial market growth.

Moving to Europe, coastal nations such as Norway, Spain, and Iceland are key players in the seafood industry. Europe boasts stringent quality standards and a strong focus on sustainability, shaping consumer preferences towards responsibly sourced seafood products. With a well-established infrastructure for processing and distribution, European countries play a vital role in global seafood trade, catering to diverse tastes and preferences.

In the Americas, regions like North America and Latin America contribute significantly to the seafood market. Countries like the United States and Canada are major consumers of seafood, with a growing demand for premium and value-added products. Latin American nations, on the other hand, leverage their rich marine resources to supply a wide range of seafood commodities, from shrimp and tuna to exotic species like Chilean sea bass. This geographical diversity fosters a vibrant marketplace, characterized by innovation and competition, driving the global seafood industry forward.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Seafood Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Key players in Global Seafood Market include:

• Kangamiut Seafood A/S
• American Seafoods Company
• Phillips Foods Inc
• Trident Seafoods Corporation
• Marine Harvest ASA
• Thai Union Group PCL
• Lee Fishing Company
• Leigh Fisheries

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