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What Is the Fish and Seafood Industry and What Do Fish and Seafood Companies Do?
The fish and seafood industry encompasses the harvesting, farming, processing, and distribution of marine and freshwater species for human consumption. It includes wild-capture fisheries and aquaculture, along with value-added processing such as freezing, canning, smoking, and ready-to-eat meal preparation. Fish and seafood companies operate across this entire value chain, supplying products to retail, foodservice, and industrial buyers worldwide. Globally, fish and seafood contribute over 20% of animal protein intake for more than 3 billion people, underscoring the sector’s importance to food security and nutrition.
Aquaculture plays an increasingly dominant role, accounting for more than 54% of total global seafood production, as wild fish stocks face sustainability constraints. Fish and seafood companies invest heavily in sustainable farming practices, cold-chain logistics, traceability systems, and quality assurance to meet rising consumer demand and regulatory standards. Key product categories include fresh, frozen, chilled, canned, and processed seafood, with frozen and fresh products together representing over 65% of global market value.
From a market standpoint, the global fish and seafood market size was valued at USD 161.92 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 167.58 billion in 2026, followed by USD 173.45 billion in 2027, expanding further to USD 228.4 billion by 2035. This growth reflects a 3.5% CAGR during the forecast period, driven by rising health awareness, population growth, and increasing preference for high-protein, omega-3-rich diets. Fish and seafood companies play a crucial role in ensuring sustainable supply, product innovation, and global trade, supporting livelihoods for over 58 million people worldwide and enabling long-term resilience in global food systems.
How Big Is the Fish and Seafood Industry in 2026?
The global fish and seafood industry in 2026 is valued at approximately USD 167.58 billion, reflecting steady growth supported by rising global protein demand, increasing health awareness, and expanding aquaculture production. The market has grown from USD 161.92 billion in 2025, highlighting the sector’s resilience and essential role in global food supply chains.
In 2026, aquaculture contributes more than 54% of total seafood supply, surpassing wild-capture fisheries as sustainability limits constrain natural fish stocks. Farmed species such as salmon, shrimp, tilapia, and pangasius dominate growth, supported by advances in feed efficiency, disease management, and controlled farming systems. Wild-capture fisheries remain significant, supplying high-value species such as tuna, cod, and shellfish, but growth is relatively moderate due to regulatory catch limits.
From a product perspective, fresh and frozen seafood together account for over 65% of total market revenue, driven by consumer preference for minimally processed, high-protein foods. Processed and value-added seafood—including canned fish, smoked products, and ready-to-cook meals—represent approximately 35% of the market and are expanding at a faster pace of 4–5% annually, fueled by urbanization and demand for convenience foods.
Regionally, Asia-Pacific dominates the fish and seafood industry, accounting for more than 45% of global production and consumption in 2026, led by China, India, and Southeast Asia. Europe and North America together contribute nearly 40% of market value, driven by higher per capita consumption and premium product demand. Looking ahead, the industry is projected to reach USD 173.45 billion in 2027 and expand further to USD 228.4 billion by 2035, reflecting a 3.5% CAGR. This steady growth underscores the fish and seafood industry’s long-term importance in global nutrition, trade, and sustainable food systems.
Global Distribution of Fish and Seafood Manufacturers by Country (2026)
| Country | Estimated Share of Global Fish & Seafood Manufacturers (%) | Key Strengths | Primary Product Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| China | 28% | Largest aquaculture base, high processing capacity | Farmed fish, shrimp, processed seafood |
| United States | 12% | Advanced cold-chain, premium branding | Frozen, fresh, value-added seafood |
| Japan | 9% | High-quality processing, premium seafood standards | Fresh fish, sashimi-grade products |
| Norway | 7% | Global leader in salmon aquaculture | Salmon, pelagic fish |
| Thailand | 6% | Export-oriented processing hubs | Tuna, shrimp, canned seafood |
| Vietnam | 5% | Cost-efficient aquaculture production | Pangasius, shrimp, frozen fish |
| Canada | 4% | Cold-water fisheries and salmon farming | Lobster, salmon, crab |
| Chile | 4% | Large-scale salmon aquaculture | Atlantic and Pacific salmon |
| India | 3% | Strong shrimp farming and exports | Shrimp, frozen fish |
| Other Countries | 22% | Regional and niche seafood producers | Local species and specialty products |
Why Is the Fish and Seafood Market Growing Rapidly Across Key Global Regions?
The global fish and seafood market is witnessing steady expansion, driven by rising consumer demand for high-quality protein, increasing awareness of the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, and strong growth in aquaculture production. In 2026, the global fish and seafood market is valued at USD 167.58 billion, up from USD 161.92 billion in 2025, and is projected to reach USD 228.4 billion by 2035, registering a 3.5% CAGR during the forecast period. Across regions, growth is further supported by urbanization, evolving dietary preferences, cold-chain expansion, and investments in sustainable fisheries and aquaculture.
Why Is the North America Fish and Seafood Market Growing?
North America accounts for nearly 20% of global fish and seafood market value in 2026, led by the United States and Canada. The U.S. represents the largest market in the region, driven by strong consumption of salmon, shrimp, tuna, and crab. Average per-capita seafood consumption in the U.S. stands at approximately 19 kg per year, and demand is increasingly shifting toward frozen, ready-to-cook, and sustainably certified seafood products.
Canada contributes significantly through cold-water fisheries and salmon aquaculture, with seafood exports accounting for over 70% of total production. Companies such as High Liner Foods, Marine Harvest (Mowi), and Princes Group play a critical role in supplying frozen and value-added seafood products across retail and foodservice channels. Rising health awareness and strong regulatory oversight continue to support market stability and premiumization in North America.
What Factors Are Driving Growth in the Europe Fish and Seafood Market?
Europe holds approximately 25% of global fish and seafood market revenue in 2026, with strong demand across Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and Italy. European consumers exhibit high per-capita seafood consumption, with France and Italy exceeding 30 kg per person annually, driven by culinary traditions and Mediterranean diets. The region shows strong preference for fresh, chilled, and sustainably sourced seafood, with eco-labels significantly influencing purchasing decisions.
Germany and the UK are major markets for frozen and convenience seafood, while France remains a hub for premium shellfish and smoked products. Leading companies such as Iglo Group, Findus Group, Labeyrie Fine Foods, and Leroy Seafood Group dominate the European market with branded, high-quality offerings. Additionally, EU-wide sustainability regulations and traceability requirements continue to drive innovation and long-term market growth.
Why Is Asia-Pacific the Largest and Fastest-Growing Fish and Seafood Market?
Asia-Pacific represents the largest regional market, accounting for over 45% of global fish and seafood consumption in 2026. The region is led by China, Japan, and India, supported by large populations, strong seafood consumption traditions, and expanding aquaculture capacity. China alone contributes more than 35% of global aquaculture output, making it the world’s largest producer and consumer of fish and seafood.
Japan maintains one of the highest per-capita seafood consumption rates globally, at approximately 45 kg per person annually, with strong demand for premium and sashimi-grade products. India is emerging as a high-growth market, expanding at 7–8% CAGR, driven by shrimp exports and rising domestic consumption. Major companies such as Thai Union Frozen Products, Dong Won Fisheries, Beijing Princess Seafood International, and Sajo Industries play a vital role in regional processing and global exports.
What Is Fueling Growth in the Middle East & Africa Fish and Seafood Market?
The Middle East & Africa (MEA) region accounts for approximately 5% of global fish and seafood market value in 2026, but represents a high-potential growth market due to rising population, urbanization, and improving cold-chain infrastructure. Countries such as Egypt, South Africa, and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations are witnessing increasing seafood consumption as diets diversify toward higher-protein foods.
Egypt is one of Africa’s largest aquaculture producers, contributing significantly to regional supply, while GCC countries rely heavily on imports to meet growing demand. Investments in modern retail formats and frozen seafood logistics are supporting market expansion. Global and regional companies, including Surapon Foods, Stolt Sea Farm, and Tassal Group, are actively expanding their presence in the region through exports and strategic partnerships.
What Are Fish and Seafood Companies?
Fish and seafood companies are enterprises engaged in the harvesting, aquaculture farming, processing, preservation, and distribution of fish and seafood products for human consumption. These companies operate across both wild-capture fisheries and aquaculture systems, supplying fresh, frozen, chilled, canned, and value-added seafood to retail, foodservice, and export markets. In 2026, aquaculture accounts for over 54% of global seafood supply, making fish and seafood companies central to sustainable protein production.
From a market perspective, the global fish and seafood market is valued at USD 167.58 billion in 2026, reflecting steady demand for high-protein and omega-3-rich foods. Fish and seafood companies invest heavily in cold-chain infrastructure, quality assurance, traceability, and sustainability certifications to meet regulatory and consumer expectations. Globally, the sector supports more than 58 million jobs across farming, processing, logistics, and trade. By enabling efficient production, processing, and global distribution, fish and seafood companies play a vital role in food security, nutrition, and international trade.
Global Growth Insights unveils the top List global Fish and Seafood Companies:
| Company | Headquarters | Estimated CAGR (%) | Revenue (Past Year) | Geographic Presence | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High Liner Foods | Nova Scotia, Canada | 6% | USD 1.1 Billion | North America | Leader in frozen value-added seafood |
| Iglo Group | United Kingdom | 5% | USD 2.2 Billion | Europe | Strong branded frozen seafood portfolio |
| Leroy Seafood Group | Bergen, Norway | 7% | USD 6.8 Billion | Europe, Asia, Americas | Vertically integrated salmon producer |
| Marine Harvest (Mowi) | Bergen, Norway | 6% | USD 5.5 Billion | Global | World’s largest farmed salmon company |
| Thai Union Frozen Products | Bangkok, Thailand | 5% | USD 4.2 Billion | Global | Global leader in tuna and shrimp processing |
| Beijing Princess Seafood International | Beijing, China | 8% | USD 1.3 Billion | Asia-Pacific, exports | Export-oriented frozen seafood processor |
| Dong Won Fisheries | Seoul, South Korea | 6% | USD 2.5 Billion | Asia, Americas, Europe | Major canned tuna and seafood supplier |
| Empresas AquaChile | Santiago, Chile | 7% | USD 3.1 Billion | Americas, Asia | Large-scale salmon aquaculture operations |
| Faroe Seafood | Faroe Islands | 6% | USD 900 Million | Europe, Asia | Pelagic fish and whitefish specialist |
| Findus Group | Europe | 5% | USD 1.5 Billion | Europe | Frozen seafood and ready meals |
| Hansung Enterprise | South Korea | 6% | USD 1.1 Billion | Asia, Global exports | Value-added seafood processing |
| Kverva | Trondheim, Norway | 5% | USD 2.8 Billion | Global | Seafood investment and aquaculture portfolio |
| Labeyrie Fine Foods | France | 6% | USD 1.4 Billion | Europe | Premium smoked and gourmet seafood |
| Mogster Group | Norway | 5% | USD 700 Million | Europe | Pelagic fisheries and processing |
| Princes Group | United Kingdom | 5% | USD 2.6 Billion | Global | Leading canned fish and seafood brands |
| Sajo Industries | South Korea | 5% | USD 3.4 Billion | Asia-Pacific | Processed seafood and food products |
| Stolt Sea Farm | Spain | 6% | USD 500 Million | Europe, Asia | High-end turbot and sole aquaculture |
| Surapon Foods | Thailand | 6% | USD 850 Million | Global exports | Value-added shrimp and seafood products |
| Tassal Group | Hobart, Australia | 7% | USD 1.2 Billion | Australia, Asia-Pacific | Sustainable salmon aquaculture leader |
Latest Company Updates (2026)
- Leroy Seafood Group, Marine Harvest (Mowi), AquaChile, and Tassal Group expanded sustainable salmon farming capacity, with production volumes rising by 6–8% year-on-year to meet global demand.
- Thai Union Frozen Products and Dong Won Fisheries increased investments in traceability, digital supply chains, and responsibly sourced tuna, supporting sustainability commitments covering over 90% of raw material sourcing.
- High Liner Foods, Iglo Group, and Findus Group expanded ready-to-cook and frozen convenience seafood lines, responding to growing urban and retail demand.
- Labeyrie Fine Foods and Stolt Sea Farm strengthened their premium and high-end seafood portfolios, benefiting from strong demand in Europe and Japan.
- Beijing Princess Seafood International, Hansung Enterprise, and Surapon Foods scaled export-oriented processing, increasing shipment volumes by an estimated 8–12% in 2026.
Opportunities for Startups & Emerging Players (2026)
The fish and seafood industry in 2026 offers strong opportunities for startups and emerging players as global demand for sustainable, traceable, and value-added seafood continues to rise. With the global fish and seafood market valued at USD 167.58 billion in 2026 and projected to reach USD 228.4 billion by 2035, new entrants can target high-growth niches rather than competing directly with large integrated producers. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing sustainability, convenience, and food safety, creating space for innovation across production, processing, and distribution.
Aquaculture remains the most attractive entry segment, accounting for over 54% of global seafood supply, with farmed fish and shrimp demand growing faster than wild-capture products. Value-added seafood—such as ready-to-cook, marinated, and portion-controlled products—is expanding at 5–6% annually, driven by urban lifestyles and modern retail growth. Additionally, digital traceability, cold-chain optimization, and direct-to-consumer seafood platforms are gaining traction, as more than 70% of consumers in developed markets prefer sustainably sourced and fully traceable seafood. Global investment in seafood innovation, including alternative proteins and aquaculture technology, exceeds USD 3–4 billion annually, highlighting strong investor interest.
| Opportunity Area | 2026 Market Relevance | Key Value Proposition | Estimated Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sustainable Aquaculture Systems | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Lower environmental impact and higher yields | 10–15% production efficiency improvement |
| Value-Added & Convenience Seafood | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Time-saving, ready-to-cook products | 5–6% annual revenue growth |
| Digital Traceability & Blockchain | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Improved transparency and food safety | 20–30% reduction in supply chain losses |
| Direct-to-Consumer Seafood Platforms | ⭐⭐⭐ | Fresh delivery and higher margins | 15–20% margin improvement |
| Alternative & Hybrid Seafood Proteins | ⭐⭐⭐ | Reduced reliance on wild fish stocks | High long-term growth potential |
FAQ – Global Fish and Seafood Companies
Q1. What do global fish and seafood companies do?
Global fish and seafood companies are involved in the harvesting, aquaculture farming, processing, packaging, and distribution of seafood products. They supply fresh, frozen, canned, and value-added seafood to retail, foodservice, and export markets. In 2026, aquaculture accounts for over 54% of global seafood production, highlighting the growing role of farming-based companies.
Q2. How big is the global fish and seafood market in 2026?
The global fish and seafood market is valued at USD 167.58 billion in 2026, growing from USD 161.92 billion in 2025. The market is projected to reach USD 228.4 billion by 2035, expanding at a 3.5% CAGR during the forecast period.
Q3. Which regions dominate fish and seafood production and consumption?
Asia-Pacific dominates global production and consumption, accounting for over 45% of total seafood output, led by China, India, and Southeast Asia. Europe and North America together contribute nearly 40% of market value, driven by higher per-capita consumption and premium product demand.
Q4. Who are the leading global fish and seafood companies?
Major players include Marine Harvest (Mowi), Leroy Seafood Group, Thai Union Frozen Products, Dong Won Fisheries, High Liner Foods, Iglo Group, and Princes Group. These companies collectively manage a large share of global aquaculture, processing, and branded seafood distribution.
Q5. What products drive demand for fish and seafood companies?
Fresh and frozen seafood account for over 65% of global market revenue, while processed and value-added products such as canned fish, smoked seafood, and ready-to-cook meals represent about 35% and are growing faster due to convenience demand.
Q6. How do sustainability and regulations affect seafood companies?
Sustainability regulations, catch limits, and certification requirements strongly influence operations. More than 70% of large seafood companies now follow sustainability standards such as MSC, ASC, or equivalent programs to ensure responsible sourcing.
Q7. What opportunities exist for new and emerging seafood companies?
Startups benefit from opportunities in sustainable aquaculture, value-added seafood products, digital traceability, and direct-to-consumer platforms. Global investment in seafood innovation exceeds USD 3–4 billion annually, reflecting strong growth potential.
Q8. What is the future outlook for fish and seafood companies?
Fish and seafood companies are positioned for steady long-term growth as global protein demand rises and aquaculture expands. Continued investment in sustainability, technology, and product innovation will remain key to competitiveness through 2035.
Conclusion
The global fish and seafood industry remains a vital pillar of the global food system, delivering essential nutrition, supporting livelihoods, and enabling international trade. Valued at USD 167.58 billion in 2026, the market has grown steadily from USD 161.92 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 228.4 billion by 2035, reflecting a 3.5% CAGR over the forecast period. This sustained expansion is driven by rising global protein demand, increasing awareness of the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, and continued growth in aquaculture production, which now accounts for over 54% of total seafood supply.
Regional dynamics highlight Asia-Pacific as the dominant production and consumption hub, contributing more than 45% of global output, while Europe and North America together generate nearly 40% of market value through premium, value-added, and sustainably sourced seafood products. Leading companies such as Marine Harvest (Mowi), Leroy Seafood Group, Thai Union Frozen Products, High Liner Foods, and Iglo Group are shaping the industry through investments in sustainable aquaculture, cold-chain infrastructure, and traceability systems.
Looking ahead, the industry’s future will be defined by sustainability, value-added innovation, and digital supply chains. As global seafood consumption continues to rise and governments strengthen fisheries management and food safety regulations, fish and seafood companies are well positioned to deliver resilient growth, long-term food security, and economic value across global markets.