Processed Seafood Market Size, Growth, and Trends 2025 to 2034

Processed Seafood Market Size, Share and Trends Insights

The global processed seafood market size estimated at USD 271.95 billion in 2024 and is predicted to increase from USD 289.90 billion in 2025 to nearly reaching USD 515.30 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 6.6% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand for convenient, ready-to-eat, and healthy food options.

Key Highlights

• By region, Asia Pacific dominated the global market with the largest share in 2024.
• By region, North America is expected to grow at a notable CAGR from 2025 to 2034.
• By species, the fish segment held the major market share of in 2024.
• By species, the shrimps segment is projected to grow at a CAGR in between 2025 and 2034.
• By product, the frozen seafood segment contributed the biggest market share in 2024.
• By product, the canned seafood segment is expanding at a significant CAGR in between 2025 and 2034.
• By distribution channel, supermarkets/hypermarkets segment dominated the market in 2024. 
• By distribution channel, online retail segment is expected to grow at a significant CAGR over the projected period.

Industry Coverage

What is the Processed Seafood Market?

The processed seafood market includes all fish and seafood that has been altered from its fresh state through methods like canning, freezing, smoking, drying, salting, or adding preservatives. This market is growing due to increased consumer demand for convenient, ready-to-eat, and ready-to-cook meals driven by busy lifestyles, as well as its extended shelf life and ease of storage. Products can be sold through various channels, including retail supermarkets, online stores, and food service, and include frozen, canned, and smoked varieties. 

Processed Seafood Market Outlook 

• Industry Growth Overview: The market for processed seafood is expanding in various industrial areas, such as the retail sector notably supermarkets and hypermarkets, the foodservice sector like restaurants and catering, along with the aquaculture and food processing industries, which are developing due to technological and infrastructural improvements. This expansion is propelled by the rising need for convenience and products with extended shelf life, such as frozen and canned seafood, as well as investments in cold chain systems, automation, and cutting-edge processing technologies. 
• Sustainability Trends: Seafood buyers are more frequently recognizing products that have sustainability features, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, animal welfare/health, and labor conditions in the fisheries/aquaculture industry. The rising consumer interest in sustainability-oriented features may be a factor fueling the shift towards more sustainable seafood production and distribution methods. Businesses are reacting by investing in eco-friendly fishing methods, aquaculture, and cutting-edge technologies such as blockchain for traceability and AI for quality assurance. 
• Starup Ecosystem: The seafood processing startup landscape is a fast-changing field marked by technological advancements (AI, IoT, robotics), a significant emphasis on sustainability and traceability, and a growing appetite for convenient, value-added products. This ecosystem features a blend of major companies, local processors, and creative startups, especially active in areas such as Asia-Pacific and Europe. 

Key Technological Shift in the Processed Seafood Market 

To satisfy consumer preferences for safe, minimally processed, and fresh-tasting seafood, the industry is transitioning from conventional heat-based methods to advanced techniques that more effectively maintain nutritional and sensory attributes. Innovations in processed seafood involve non-thermal techniques such as high-pressure Processing (HPP) and plasma technology for enhancing shelf-life and maintaining quality. The Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0) has brought digital technologies that are changing supply chain management, quality assurance, and sustainability practices. Additional innovations emphasize advanced packaging technologies, including modified atmosphere and smart packaging, along with Industry 4.0 implementations like AI, robotics, and intelligent sensors for improved tracking and traceability from farm to table. 

Trade Analysis of Processed Seafood Market: Export and Import Statistics 

• Most of the processed frozen seafood exported globally is sent to Japan, Hong Kong, and the United States. Worldwide, the leading three exporters of Processed Frozen Seafood are Vietnam, China, and India.
• Vietnam tops the global market in exports of Processed Frozen Seafood, recording 502 shipments, while China follows with 32 shipments, and India secures third place with 17 shipments.
• The leading three exporters of Processed Seafood worldwide are the United States, India, and Vietnam.
• The United States tops the globe in processed seafood exports with 171 shipments, while India follows with 64 shipments, and Vietnam ranks third with 60 shipments. 
• Most exports of processed packed seafood from the world are directed to the United States, Thailand, and China. India tops global exports of Processed Packed Seafood with 54 shipments, while Bahamas with 6 shipments, and Sri Lanka with 6 shipments.

Value Chain Analysis of Processed Seafood Market

Raw Material Procurement 

• The process begins with sourcing seafood from both wild-catch fisheries and aquaculture farms. 

Processing

• It includes filleting, gutting, scaling, freezing, and canning to preserve the product. 

Packaging

• Using advanced methods like vacuum packaging or modified atmosphere packaging to extend shelf life. 

Distribution

• Transporting products through various channels, such as wholesale, retail (offline and online), and export markets.

Processed Seafood Market Regional Insights

What Made the Asia Pacific Dominant Region in the Processed Seafood Market?

Asia Pacific dominated the market in 2024. The market in the Asia Pacific is a significant and expanding industry fueled by growing urbanization, increasing incomes of the middle class, and a demand for convenient, nutritious food choices. China plays a leading role as a significant consumer and exporter, bolstered by its robust aquaculture sector and processing skills. Important growth drivers consist of the development of cold chain facilities and the increasing demand for items such as frozen and canned seafood. The growing middle class throughout the Asia Pacific is fundamentally altering seafood consumption trends, as urban households increasingly focus on protein-rich diets and high-quality seafood options.

China Processed Seafood Market

The expansion of China's market is mainly propelled by rising consumer interest in convenient, ready-to-eat items, driven by hectic lifestyles and urban development. Increasing disposable incomes and an expanding middle class have resulted in greater expenditure on quality and varied seafood choices. Moreover, governmental efforts encouraging sustainable fishing and aquaculture methods foster industry development. Improvements in processing technology and cold chain logistics have enhanced product quality and longevity, broadening market access.

North America Processed Seafood Market: Growth Drivers

The processed seafood market in North America has shown fastest expansion driven by a rising need for convenient, nutritious, and sustainably sourced food items. This industry has progressed due to a change in consumer habits toward healthier food selections, where seafood is viewed as a low-fat protein source abundant in Omega-3 fatty acids. The North American market, comprising the U.S. and Canada, has seen substantial expansion fueled by these elements. The increasing recognition of the health advantages of seafood and the heightened demand for ready-to-eat and frozen seafood items are key factors fueling this growth.

U.S. Processed Seafood Market

The U.S. processed seafood market is extensive and expanding, fueled by the need for protein packed, convenient, and nutritious food choices, particularly shrimp, salmon, and tuna. As the largest importer of fish and fishery products globally, the United States significantly influences aquaculture practices around the world. Main factors consist of rising consumer knowledge about the health advantages of seafood, the growth of retail and online shopping, and an increasing inclination towards sustainable and convenient meal options.

Europe Seafood Processing Industry: Regional Insights on Rapid Growth

The European market is a large and growing industry. This expansion is fueled by reasons such as a strong consumer inclination towards premium seafood with high protein content, a movement towards sustainable aquaculture practices, and a solid cold-chain logistics system. Active lifestyles result in an increased need for convenient, ready-to-eat, and easy-to-prepare processed seafood items. Major participants consist of Spain, France, and Portugal, with the market influenced by local production as well as substantial international commerce.

Spain Processed Seafood Market

Spain's processed seafood market is strong, fueled by elevated per capita consumption, a substantial processing sector, and significant demand for canned and frozen items. The market is the largest in Europe regarding processing, but it depends on imports to satisfy local demand. Spain imports more fish and seafood than it exports, obtaining these products from over one hundred nations globally. In 2024, Spain imported seafood products valued at $9.5 billion from various sources, an increase of nearly 3 percent compared to the prior year.

Expanding Processed Seafood Market Of MEA 

The processed seafood market in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) is expanding, fueled by urbanization, hectic lifestyles, and a rising need for convenience foods. Important market trends involve a transition from fresh to processed items such as canned, frozen, and smoked fish, along with the growth of contemporary retail, particularly supermarkets and hypermarkets. The market is experiencing significant growth in value-added products, bolstered by e-commerce that enhances accessibility.

UAE Processed Seafood Market

The processed seafood market in the UAE is seeing consistent expansion, fueled by rising demand for convenient and nutritious food choices stemming from population increases, tourism, and a desire for varied cuisines. The government is putting money into aquaculture and seafood production to reduce imports, but it still falls short of satisfying demand. The market is influenced by a combination of well-known local firms such as Al Islami Foods and global entities like Conagra Brands. 

South America Processed Seafood Market Expansion

The expansion of the South America market is mainly fueled by rising consumer interest in convenient, ready-to-eat seafood offerings. Increasing disposable incomes and urban migration have resulted in a trend toward processed food, such as seafood, because of their convenience and extended shelf life. Improvements in technology for processing and packaging boost product quality and safety, drawing in more customers.

Brazil Processed Seafood Market

The processed seafood market in Brazil is driven by strong domestic consumption and increasing exports, particularly of farmed tilapia. Tilapia is the most important farmed fish, accounting for over 65% of domestic production. The industry is expanding with investments in aquaculture and processing technology. A rising middle class and a growing consumer trend toward healthy, high-protein diets are increasing domestic consumption of seafood.

Segmental Insights

Species Insights

Why did the Fish Segment Dominate the Processed Seafood Market?

The fish segment led the market in 2024, because of the broad accessibility of numerous fish species, their notable health advantages especially protein and omega-3 fatty acids, the adaptability in transforming them into convenient items, and the ongoing advancements in preservation techniques. Fish are readily accessible from extensive ocean resources and a quickly growing aquaculture sector.

The Shrimps Segment is Observed to Grow at the Fastest Rate During the Forecast Period. 

Attributed to strong demand fueled by health trends, a desire for convenient and versatile ingredients, and innovations in aquaculture. Shrimp is a nutrient-dense food that is low in calories and high in protein, abundant in omega-3s and other essential nutrients, which makes it a favored option for health-focused individuals. Its adaptability in cuisine, the ease of processed goods, and the increasing worldwide output capacity of shrimp farming further enhance its market supremacy.

The market is witnessing growth in the tuna segment, driven by rising consumer demand for convenient, nutritious, and protein-packed food choices. Main factors consist of the increase in value-added items such as flavored and ready-to-eat tuna, advancements in packaging like single-serve pouches, and an escalating emphasis on health-oriented diets such as weight control and high-protein schemes.

Product Insights

How did the Frozen Seafood Dominate the Processed Seafood Market?

Frozen seafood segment held the dominating share of the market in 2024. Frozen seafood is increasingly popular because of its extended shelf life, flavor, availability throughout the year, and preserved nutrition in contrast to fresh options. Innovations in freezing technology, cold chain logistics, and vacuum-sealed packaging have increased the appeal of frozen seafood in retail and foodservice industries.

Canned Seafood is Seen to Grow at a Notable Rate During the Predicted Timeframe.

The growing need for convenience food is notably propelling the expansion of the canned seafood sector, mirroring larger patterns in consumer preferences and market forces. Enhanced convenience, a rise in the appetite for animal-based protein, extended shelf life, and the cost-effectiveness of these products compared to alternatives (frozen and fresh) further boost the sales of canned items.

Smoked seafood segment is growing rapidly as consumers seek healthy, convenient, and high-quality food choices. Advancements in smoking methods and packaging are improving product quality, shelf life, and attractiveness. Techniques for cold smoking, hot smoking, and hybrid methods are being enhanced for better flavor and safety.

Distribution Channel Insights 

Which Distribution Channel Dominated the Processed Seafood Market?

Supermarkets/hypermarkets segment dominated the market with the largest share in 2024, attributable to their convenience, extensive product range, ideal locations, and marketing efforts. They provide a comprehensive shopping experience for various groceries, featuring a wide range of processed seafood choices such as frozen, canned, and ready-to-cook items, accommodating different consumer preferences and hectic lifestyles. These retailers additionally utilize their extensive customer bases through in-store promotions, discounts, and sampling to boost sales.

Online Retail Segment is Expected to Grow at the Fastest Rate in the Market During the Forecast Period. 

Due to convenience, driven by convenience, home delivery, and a broader range of options that attract busy shoppers and individuals residing far from brick-and-mortar stores. The COVID-19 pandemic hastened this transition, and digital platforms have consistently fulfilled consumer needs for diversity, convenience, and thorough product details. The increase of strong cold-chain logistics and online payment systems additionally bolsters the expansion of this segment.

The specialty store segment is growing in the market as consumers seek convenient, healthy, and high-quality food choices offered by these retailers. Specialty shops respond to the need for premium, convenient, and enhanced products, and their concentration on particular niches helps them stand out from bigger retailers.

Recent Developments in the Processed Seafood Market

• Scheme: In August 2025, Timmy Dooley TD, the Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, announced the initiation of the 2025 Seafood Processing Capital Investment Scheme, designed to bolster Ireland's seafood processing industry via specific grant assistance. (Source: The Fishing Daily)

Prime Shrimp

• Launch: In July 2025, Prime Shrimp, an established provider of high-quality shrimp products, revealed its newest innovation: Prime Shrimp Burgers. Comprising 80 percent shrimp and devoid of sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP), these ready-to-cook frozen patties are available to consumers in both food service and retail sectors. (Source: Businesswire)

Top Key Players in the Processed Seafood Market

Mowi ASA

Corporate Information

• Mowi ASA is a global seafood company, headquartered in Bergen, Norway. 
• It is the largest producer of farm raised Atlantic salmon in the world. 
• Its operations span the full value chain: genetics & breeding - fish feed production - salmon farming - harvesting - processing (fresh, frozen, value added) - distribution / sales & marketing globally. 

History and Background

• The current form of Mowi originated in 2006, via a major merger combining Pan Fish ASA, Marine Harvest N.V. and Fjord Seafood ASA. 
• Former names: It was Pan Fish, then changed to Marine Harvest ASA in 2007, before adopting the current name Mowi ASA on 1 Jan 2019. 

Key Developments and Strategic Initiatives

• Integrated Value Chain Strategy: Mowi owns and operates across the full value chain from genetics and feed to farming, processing, logistics, and global sales/marketing. This vertical integration helps ensure quality, efficiency, traceability, and cost control. 
• Growth & Volume Expansion: The company aims for continuing volume growth. According to its Capital Markets Day, Mowi projects sustained revenue growth over coming years.

Mergers & Acquisitions

• The fundamental establishment of Mowi stems from the 2006 merger of Pan Fish ASA, Marine Harvest N.V., and Fjord Seafood ASA. 
• More recently (2025), Mowi increased its ownership stake in another significant aquaculture player, Nova Sea AS, moving from 49% to 95%, strengthening its footprint and control in one of Norway's premier salmon farming operations.

Partnerships & Collaborations

• The company continues to operate globally, collaborating with local entities in various countries feed mills, farms, processing units, distribution networks thereby leveraging shared infrastructure and local expertise across geographies.

Product Launches/Innovations

• Its product range includes fresh and frozen salmon, whole gutted fish, fillets, steaks and portions, smoked salmon, and ready-to-eat / value-added seafood products. 
• Through its “Sales & Marketing” segment, Mowi emphasizes value-added seafood processing this helps meet different consumer preferences globally (fresh, frozen, convenience, smoked, premium cuts etc.).

Key Technology Focus Areas

• On the technology side, besides post smolt initiatives and automation, Mowi is working to improve sustainability via advanced feed ingredients (alternative proteins, etc.), better biological management (fish health, welfare), and improved processing methods.

R&D Organisation & Investment

• Mowi maintains an internal R&D function focusing on genetics & broodstock selection, feed development, fish welfare and health, sustainable aquaculture practices, and efficiency in farming & processing. 
• With sustainability and low-carbon diets being global megatrends, Mowi’s R&D aims to support those improving feed formulations (e.g., alternative ingredients), reducing environmental footprint, minimizing use of antibiotics or sea-lice treatments, optimizing farming conditions.

SWOT Analysis

Strengths

• Global leader: Largest farmed salmon producer worldwide. 
• Full value chain integration feed to plate allows tight control over quality, supply, cost and traceability. 
• Diversified global presence across many countries and markets reduces risk of dependence on a single geography.

Weaknesses/Risks

• Heavy reliance on salmon (especially Atlantic salmon). If demand or prices for salmon drop, business can be impacted more than a more diversified seafood company.
• Aquaculture risks: disease, sea lice, environmental conditions, fish welfare, regulatory & sustainability compliance. These are common to all farmed seafood.

Opportunities

• Rising global demand: growing need for healthy, low carbon, protein-rich food; seafood (especially salmon) benefits from health trends. 
• Value added and convenience seafood products (smoked, ready-to-eat, fillets, portions) for retail/foodservice markets high margin potential.

Threats

• Market price volatility: salmon/fish prices can fluctuate due to industry wide supply changes, global demand shifts, input cost changes (feed, energy, regulatory costs). For example, in Q3 2025 Mowi reported record volumes but noted price pressure due to high industry supply. 
• Environmental & regulatory pressures: sustainability regulations, concerns about escapes, disease, sea lice, ecosystem impact increasingly under scrutiny.
• Competition: Other aquaculture and seafood companies as aquaculture grows globally, competition may intensify.

Recent News & Strategic Updates

• Record 2024 Performance: In 2024, Mowi achieved record-high harvest volumes (~ 530,000 tonnes) and its highest ever revenues (~ €5.62 billion). 
• Increased Ownership in Nova Sea: In January 2025, Mowi agreed to acquire an additional stake in Nova Sea raising its ownership from 49% to 95%, strengthening its base in premium Norwegian aquaculture.

Other Key Players in the Market 

• China National Fishery Corporation (CNFC) is a major player in the market due to its extensive fishing operations, processing facilities, and global export capabilities. 
• Trident Seafoods is a significant entity in the processed seafood industry, functioning as the largest vertically integrated seafood harvesting and processing firm in North America with an international presence. It handles different species, such as salmon, whitefish, and crab. 
• High Liner Foods is a prominent North American processor and seller of value-added frozen seafood, offering branded items in retail shops and private label products to retailers and foodservice distributors.
• Austevoll Seafood ASA
• Aquachile
• The Union Frozen Products
• Sajo Industries
• Tropical General Investments Nigeria Ltd

Segment Covered in the Report

By Species

• Fish
• Molluscs
• Tuna
• Shrimps
• Crabs
• Others

By Product

• Frozen Seafood
• Canned Seafood
• Smoked Seafood
• Dried Products
• Others

By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Specialty Stores
• Online Retail
• Retail

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific 
• MEA
• Latin America