Fresh Fish Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Pelagic, Demersal), By Applications (Offline, Online) , and Regional Insights and Forecast to 2034

Fresh Fish Market Size

The Global Fresh Fish Market size was USD 265.82 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 273.13 billion in 2025, USD 280.65 billion in 2026, and USD 348.67 billion by 2034, exhibiting a steady CAGR of 2.75% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Around 56% of total market share comes from Asia-Pacific, while Europe and North America contribute 22% and 14% respectively. Increased consumer preference for protein-rich diets and the rapid rise in aquaculture production continue to drive global market expansion.

The US Fresh Fish Market shows consistent growth, accounting for nearly 7.8% of the global share. About 64% of American consumers purchase fresh fish weekly, driven by growing awareness of healthy eating and omega-3 benefits. Retail distribution channels represent around 52% of total sales, while e-commerce seafood deliveries grew by 29% in the last year. Sustainability certifications and traceable sourcing now influence over 68% of U.S. seafood purchases, reflecting a nationwide shift toward responsible consumption.

Key Findings

• Market Size: Global Fresh Fish Market reached USD 265.82 billion in 2024, USD 273.13 billion in 2025, and is expected to hit USD 348.67 billion by 2034, growing at 2.75%.
• Growth Drivers: Over 67% of consumers prefer high-protein seafood; 55% of supply comes from aquaculture, and 43% use eco-friendly fishing practices.
• Trends: Nearly 72% of buyers prefer traceable seafood; 48% shop via online platforms, and 35% rely on sustainable packaging for quality assurance.
• Key Players: Marine Harvest, Austevoll Seafood Group, Grieg Seafood, Trident Seafoods, Tesco & more.
• Regional Insights: Asia-Pacific leads with 56% of the market, driven by high seafood consumption and aquaculture output. Europe follows with 22%, supported by sustainable fishing practices. North America holds 14%, fueled by growing demand for fresh protein sources, while the Middle East & Africa account for 8% through rising coastal fisheries.
• Challenges: About 41% of producers face rising operational costs, 37% report environmental pressure, and 28% struggle with cold-chain inefficiencies.
• Industry Impact: Nearly 54% of producers have shifted to digital supply tracking, while 45% adopted automation to enhance efficiency and sustainability.
• Recent Developments: Around 32% of firms launched sustainable fish ranges, 28% invested in AI logistics, and 36% improved product shelf-life innovations.

The Fresh Fish Market is evolving with strong momentum in aquaculture and sustainable sourcing. Around 58% of the market’s growth is driven by eco-certified seafood and digital supply chain integration. Consumer awareness of health benefits has influenced 69% of global seafood purchases, while automation and AI-based quality control are enhancing freshness and reducing waste by 22%. The market is also witnessing innovation in cold storage systems, with nearly 40% improvement in distribution efficiency.

Fresh Fish Market Trends

The global fresh fish market is witnessing strong growth driven by shifting dietary preferences and a rise in demand for protein-rich foods. Around 64% of consumers now prefer fresh seafood over frozen alternatives, showing a notable increase in health-conscious buying behavior. The retail segment accounts for nearly 48% of the overall market share, supported by expanding supermarket chains and e-commerce platforms offering fresh catch delivery. Aquaculture contributes approximately 55% of the total fish supply, with Asia-Pacific leading the production at about 68% market share. Europe holds nearly 19% of the market, driven by sustainable fishing initiatives, while North America represents roughly 11% due to high consumer awareness of omega-3 benefits. The adoption of smart cold-chain logistics has enhanced the shelf life of fresh fish by nearly 35%, reducing post-harvest losses significantly. Additionally, 72% of urban consumers are opting for traceable and eco-certified seafood, emphasizing transparency in sourcing. This increasing preference for fresh, high-quality, and locally sourced fish is reshaping global market dynamics.

Fresh Fish Market Dynamics

OPPORTUNITY

Technological Advancement in Cold Chain Logistics

Approximately 58% of seafood distributors have upgraded to advanced cold-chain systems, reducing product spoilage by nearly 32%. Around 46% of logistics companies now employ IoT-based temperature monitoring for real-time tracking of fish freshness. The adoption of automated cold storage units has improved efficiency by 40%, enhancing delivery speed and product safety in the fresh fish market globally.

DRIVERS

Growing Consumer Shift Toward Healthy Protein Sources

Nearly 67% of consumers identify fresh fish as their preferred source of lean protein. About 54% of households in coastal regions consume fish at least three times a week, reflecting strong cultural and nutritional influence. With over 49% of the population actively reducing red meat intake, the rising preference for omega-rich fish products continues to drive steady growth in the market.

RESTRAINTS

"Inadequate Infrastructure in Developing Regions"

Nearly 36% of fish harvested in low-income areas is lost due to poor preservation and storage facilities. Around 28% of small-scale fishermen face difficulties maintaining consistent quality because of limited access to refrigeration and processing technologies. This infrastructural gap continues to hinder market expansion and restricts the availability of high-quality fresh fish in emerging economies.

CHALLENGE

"Environmental and Regulatory Constraints"

About 42% of fishing operations globally are affected by environmental regulations aimed at preventing overfishing. Around 37% of marine habitats are under pressure from pollution and climate-related disruptions, impacting fish availability. Stricter sustainability standards and supply restrictions have increased operational challenges for producers, making resource management a critical issue for the fresh fish market.

Segmentation Analysis

The global Fresh Fish Market, valued at USD 273.13 Billion in 2025, is projected to reach USD 348.67 Billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 2.75% during the forecast period. The market is segmented by type and application, with Pelagic and Demersal fish dominating based on species category, and Online and Offline channels driving distribution growth. In 2025, Pelagic fish accounted for the largest market share due to high demand for tuna, mackerel, and sardines, while Demersal species saw moderate expansion driven by regional consumption. On the application side, Offline sales channels captured the majority share, though Online distribution is growing steadily with the rise of e-commerce and home delivery services for fresh seafood.

By Type

Pelagic

Pelagic fish, including tuna, mackerel, and sardines, represent the largest share of the global fresh fish trade. This category benefits from its abundance in tropical and temperate waters and its high nutritional value. Approximately 59% of global fish consumption is attributed to pelagic species, making them central to both retail and food service sectors worldwide.

The Pelagic segment held the largest share in the Fresh Fish Market, accounting for USD 156.34 Billion in 2025, representing about 57.2% of the total market. This segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 2.8% from 2025 to 2034, supported by rising demand for lean protein, improved cold-chain systems, and growing aquaculture efficiency in coastal regions.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Pelagic Segment

• Japan led the Pelagic segment with a market size of USD 31.6 Billion in 2025, holding an 11.6% share and expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.9% due to high tuna consumption and advanced fishing technologies.
• Norway held a 9.8% share with a market size of USD 26.7 Billion in 2025, driven by export strength and sustainable mackerel production.
• India captured an 8.5% share at USD 23.3 Billion in 2025, supported by strong domestic demand and the expansion of pelagic aquaculture farms.

Demersal

Demersal fish, such as cod, haddock, and halibut, are prized for their premium quality and firm texture, making them popular in Western and European cuisines. This segment is driven by steady restaurant and retail demand, though limited supply due to deep-sea fishing restrictions has kept prices high and production moderate.

The Demersal segment accounted for USD 116.79 Billion in 2025, representing 42.8% of the global market share. It is projected to expand at a CAGR of 2.6% through 2034, driven by growing consumer preference for white fish varieties and the rising adoption of sustainable fishing methods across Europe and North America.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Demersal Segment

• United Kingdom led the Demersal segment with a market size of USD 25.4 Billion in 2025, holding an 8.9% share and expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.5% due to rising domestic consumption of cod and haddock.
• Iceland held a 7.4% share with USD 20.1 Billion in 2025, benefiting from high export volumes and regulated fisheries management.
• United States captured a 6.8% share at USD 18.5 Billion in 2025, supported by strong retail demand and seafood import dependence.

By Application

Offline

The Offline segment remains the leading sales channel, with supermarkets, local fish markets, and wholesale distributors dominating distribution. Around 74% of global fresh fish purchases still occur through offline networks, as consumers prefer direct product inspection and local availability.

The Offline segment held the largest share in the Fresh Fish Market, valued at USD 186.25 Billion in 2025, representing 68.2% of the total market. This segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 2.6% through 2034, driven by strong traditional retail networks, consumer trust in freshness, and regional supply chain integration.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Offline Segment

• China led the Offline segment with a market size of USD 44.7 Billion in 2025, holding a 16.4% share and expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.7% due to vast domestic fish markets and seafood trade hubs.
• Indonesia captured a 10.9% share with USD 30.3 Billion in 2025, supported by traditional fish bazaars and local demand for fresh catch.
• Spain held an 8.7% share at USD 24.1 Billion in 2025, driven by strong seafood consumption culture and established retail seafood chains.

Online

The Online segment is emerging rapidly with increasing digitalization of seafood retail. Nearly 26% of global consumers have shifted toward purchasing fresh fish through e-commerce platforms, mainly driven by convenience, contactless delivery, and real-time freshness tracking.

The Online segment accounted for USD 86.88 Billion in 2025, representing 31.8% of the market. It is expected to register a CAGR of 2.9% from 2025 to 2034, fueled by mobile app-based seafood platforms, expanding cold delivery networks, and higher consumer trust in digital food sourcing.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Online Segment

• South Korea led the Online segment with a market size of USD 20.7 Billion in 2025, holding a 7.6% share and projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.1% due to digital seafood retail platforms and strong logistics infrastructure.
• United States captured a 6.9% share at USD 18.8 Billion in 2025, driven by rising online grocery adoption and doorstep seafood delivery services.
• Japan held a 6.2% share with USD 17.0 Billion in 2025, supported by technological advancements in e-commerce and fresh seafood packaging systems.

Fresh Fish Market Regional Outlook

The global Fresh Fish Market, valued at USD 273.13 Billion in 2025, is projected to reach USD 348.67 Billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 2.75%. Regionally, Asia-Pacific dominates with 56% of the total market share, followed by Europe at 22%, North America at 14%, and the Middle East & Africa accounting for 8%. The regional distribution reflects differences in seafood consumption habits, aquaculture development, and technological adoption across production and supply chains.

North America

North America’s fresh fish market continues to expand due to rising consumer focus on health and sustainability. Approximately 61% of U.S. households consume fish weekly, with salmon and cod being top-selling species. Retail outlets account for about 48% of total sales, while the foodservice sector captures 37%. The increasing adoption of traceable seafood and eco-certification programs has enhanced consumer confidence across the region.

North America held a 14% share of the global Fresh Fish Market in 2025, equivalent to USD 38.24 Billion. The region is expected to grow steadily, driven by sustainable aquaculture practices, digital seafood retail expansion, and strong demand for fresh protein-based diets.

North America - Major Dominant Countries in the Fresh Fish Market

• United States led the region with a market size of USD 21.3 Billion in 2025, holding a 7.8% share due to strong seafood imports and rising retail demand.
• Canada accounted for USD 11.4 Billion in 2025, representing a 4.2% share, supported by salmon farming and clean aquaculture operations.
• Mexico captured a 2% share at USD 5.5 Billion in 2025, with growth fueled by coastal fisheries and expanding domestic consumption.

Europe

Europe’s fresh fish market is characterized by strong consumer demand for premium seafood and sustainability-driven supply chains. Around 58% of European consumers prefer certified sustainable fish, and nearly 42% purchase from local sources. The region benefits from robust logistics networks and a well-established retail distribution system, with Norway, Spain, and the UK leading the market in supply and exports.

Europe held a 22% share of the global Fresh Fish Market in 2025, accounting for USD 60.09 Billion. Growth is supported by policy-driven sustainability goals, increased aquaculture output, and rising demand for fresh cod, haddock, and salmon in both retail and foodservice sectors.

Europe - Major Dominant Countries in the Fresh Fish Market

• Norway led with USD 18.2 Billion in 2025, holding a 6.7% share, driven by strong exports of pelagic species and advanced aquaculture systems.
• Spain captured USD 14.7 Billion in 2025, representing a 5.4% share due to high seafood consumption and coastal fisheries.
• United Kingdom accounted for USD 10.6 Billion in 2025, with a 3.9% share, supported by steady demand for cod and haddock.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific dominates the global fresh fish market, accounting for over half of the global demand. Approximately 68% of total fish consumption occurs in this region, driven by strong seafood culture, aquaculture expansion, and population growth. China, India, and Indonesia lead production, with advanced fish farming and high local consumption rates contributing to continuous market growth.

Asia-Pacific held a 56% share of the global Fresh Fish Market in 2025, valued at USD 152.95 Billion. The region’s growth is driven by extensive aquaculture infrastructure, evolving cold-chain logistics, and high urban seafood consumption across developing economies.

Asia-Pacific - Major Dominant Countries in the Fresh Fish Market

• China led the Asia-Pacific market with USD 67.4 Billion in 2025, holding a 24.7% share, driven by vast aquaculture output and domestic demand.
• India followed with USD 33.8 Billion in 2025, accounting for a 12.4% share due to government-led fisheries expansion programs.
• Indonesia recorded USD 28.5 Billion in 2025, representing a 10.4% share, supported by strong pelagic fish production and exports.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region shows moderate growth potential, supported by rising seafood consumption and expanding coastal fisheries. Approximately 44% of total fish production comes from marine sources, while aquaculture is growing by nearly 5% annually. Demand for fresh fish is driven by urbanization, changing diets, and import reliance in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

Middle East & Africa accounted for an 8% share of the global Fresh Fish Market in 2025, valued at USD 21.85 Billion. Growth is supported by improved port infrastructure, fish farming initiatives, and government programs encouraging domestic seafood production.

Middle East & Africa - Major Dominant Countries in the Fresh Fish Market

• Saudi Arabia led the region with USD 8.4 Billion in 2025, holding a 3.1% share due to high seafood imports and aquaculture investments.
• South Africa captured USD 6.9 Billion in 2025, representing a 2.5% share, supported by strong coastal fisheries and export markets.
• Egypt held USD 6.5 Billion in 2025, with a 2.4% share, driven by freshwater fish farming and domestic consumption growth.

List of Key Fresh Fish Market Companies Profiled

Investment Analysis and Opportunities in Fresh Fish Market

Investment in the global fresh fish industry is accelerating, with nearly 62% of seafood enterprises expanding into aquaculture-based production and digital cold-chain logistics. About 48% of total investments target Asia-Pacific, driven by rising domestic demand and government incentives for sustainable fisheries. Around 36% of investors focus on automation technologies for fish processing, reducing labor costs by nearly 25%. The increasing shift toward sustainable fishing practices is attracting institutional investors, as 54% of consumers now prefer traceable and certified seafood products, creating new funding opportunities across regions.

New Products Development

In recent years, product innovation has surged across the fresh fish market, with approximately 41% of companies launching new ready-to-cook and premium fillet ranges. Around 32% of manufacturers have adopted vacuum-sealed or modified-atmosphere packaging, extending shelf life by nearly 30%. Plant-based seafood alternatives now represent 8% of total product development activity. Additionally, 57% of major processors are integrating AI-based quality control systems to ensure freshness and consistency. These advancements are redefining product appeal and strengthening market competitiveness among global seafood producers.

Developments

• Marine Harvest: Introduced an advanced aquaculture monitoring system that improved fish survival rates by 15% and reduced feed waste by 10%, enhancing operational efficiency.
• Tesco: Expanded its sustainable seafood range, achieving 25% more certified eco-friendly products across its European retail network in 2024.
• Trident Seafoods: Upgraded its cold-chain facilities, reducing transportation-related product loss by 18% while increasing delivery efficiency in North America.
• Grieg Seafood: Implemented digital farming analytics that boosted production efficiency by 22% and improved environmental compliance in aquaculture farms.
• Austevoll Seafood Group: Partnered with regional distributors to achieve 20% higher export volumes through optimized logistics and cold-storage upgrades.

Report Coverage

The Fresh Fish Market report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global seafood industry, covering production, distribution, and consumption dynamics across major regions. It evaluates market segmentation by type, application, and region while assessing competitive strategies of key players. SWOT analysis highlights strengths such as a 56% dominance by Asia-Pacific, robust aquaculture infrastructure, and technological advancements improving quality and yield. Weaknesses include limited cold-chain infrastructure affecting 38% of developing regions and environmental regulation challenges impacting 37% of fisheries. Opportunities lie in digital retail expansion, sustainable aquaculture adoption, and eco-friendly product innovations that appeal to the 72% of consumers demanding traceable seafood. Threats stem from climate variability, overfishing risks, and rising operational costs affecting nearly 41% of producers globally. The report also tracks emerging trends such as smart logistics, automation, and traceability technologies that enhance operational efficiency by up to 35%. Overall, it provides a data-driven outlook on market growth potential, investment attractiveness, and regional competitiveness within the evolving global seafood ecosystem.