Surimi Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Frozen Surimi, Chilled Surimi, Fresh Surimi), By Applications (Food Industry, Pharmaceutical Industry, Animal Feed, Pet Food) , and Regional Insights and Forecast to 2034

Surimi Market Size

The Global Surimi Market size was valued at USD 1.54 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 1.66 billion in 2025, USD 1.79 billion in 2026, and USD 3.26 billion by 2034, exhibiting a growth rate of 7.8% during the forecast period (2025–2034). The market expansion is driven by a 40% surge in demand for processed seafood, a 35% increase in protein-rich diets, and rising global consumption of imitation crab and seafood-based convenience meals.

The US Surimi Market is witnessing notable growth, accounting for nearly 12% of global consumption. Around 50% of the demand comes from retail seafood products, while 30% is driven by food service outlets such as sushi and fast-casual chains. Increasing health awareness among 45% of US consumers is fueling the shift toward high-protein, low-fat seafood alternatives. Domestic production is expanding by 20% as manufacturers invest in cold chain efficiency and sustainable fish sourcing to meet growing consumer demand.

Key Findings

• Market Size: Global Surimi Market stood at USD 1.54 billion in 2024, USD 1.66 billion in 2025, and is projected to reach USD 3.26 billion by 2034, growing at 7.8%.
• Growth Drivers: Surimi consumption increased by 40% globally, with 35% rise in seafood-based protein demand and 30% growth in frozen product preferences.
• Trends: About 45% of new product launches focus on sustainable ingredients, while 50% of consumers prefer ready-to-eat seafood snacks and healthy substitutes.
• Key Players: Nippon Suisan Kaisha, Thai Union Group, Maruha Nichiro, Dongwon Industries, CJ CheilJedang & more.
• Regional Insights: Asia-Pacific leads with 55% share driven by high seafood consumption and exports. Europe follows with 20% supported by demand for chilled surimi. North America holds 15% fueled by processed seafood trends, while Middle East & Africa account for 10% with growing frozen surimi imports.
• Challenges: Around 25% of producers face raw material shortages, while 18% report rising energy costs and 12% experience logistics inefficiencies in cold storage operations.
• Industry Impact: Approximately 40% of seafood processing units have adopted automation, and 30% implemented sustainable sourcing methods, enhancing production efficiency.
• Recent Developments: Nearly 20% of surimi producers launched plant-based lines, while 25% expanded export operations and 15% upgraded processing infrastructure globally.

The surimi market is evolving rapidly with increasing focus on sustainability, innovation, and quality. Over 35% of companies are investing in eco-friendly packaging and plant-based alternatives, while 50% of consumers prioritize nutritional benefits in seafood products. Demand for frozen and chilled surimi continues to grow, representing nearly 70% of total market sales. The market’s future lies in technological integration, efficient supply chains, and diversification across emerging economies.

Surimi Market Trends

The surimi market is witnessing significant growth driven by the increasing preference for processed seafood and protein-rich diets. Asia-Pacific dominates the global surimi consumption, accounting for nearly 55% of the overall market share, led by countries such as Japan, China, and Thailand. Europe holds around 20% share, while North America represents approximately 15%, largely influenced by the rising demand for imitation crab and fish-based snacks. The frozen surimi segment captures more than 60% of total product demand, supported by longer shelf life and easy distribution. Meanwhile, the fresh surimi category contributes around 25%, favored for its superior texture and flavor.

Alaska pollock-based surimi holds nearly 50% of the production share due to its high protein quality and neutral taste, while tropical species such as threadfin bream contribute close to 30%. Demand from food service sectors—including restaurants and catering—accounts for over 40% of the consumption volume. The retail segment follows closely with around 35%, boosted by ready-to-eat and convenience food trends. Moreover, consumer preference for low-fat, sustainable seafood options has increased by over 25%, propelling innovation in plant-based and hybrid surimi formulations. Packaging innovations and extended cold chain logistics have further enhanced surimi’s accessibility in global markets.

Surimi Market Dynamics

OPPORTUNITY

Expansion of Plant-Based and Sustainable Surimi Alternatives

Consumer interest in plant-based seafood alternatives has grown by nearly 40%, creating new opportunities for surimi manufacturers. Around 35% of major players are investing in plant-based formulations to attract health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers. With over 45% of the younger demographic shifting toward eco-friendly protein options, the market is witnessing an upsurge in hybrid and vegan surimi products. Sustainable sourcing practices have improved by 30%, boosting credibility and consumer trust across developed regions.

DRIVERS

Growing Demand for Ready-to-Eat Seafood Products

The rise in convenient food consumption has increased the demand for surimi-based items by nearly 55%. Over 50% of consumers in urban markets prefer easy-to-prepare seafood meals, while food service outlets contribute around 40% to the overall demand. The imitation crab segment alone accounts for about 30% of the total surimi consumption. Additionally, online retail channels have seen a 25% growth in surimi product sales, driven by changing lifestyles and time-saving eating habits.

RESTRAINTS

"Fluctuations in Raw Material Availability"

The surimi industry faces challenges due to limited fish supply, with raw material availability declining by approximately 15%. Overfishing and environmental factors have impacted 20% of global whitefish sources, especially Alaska pollock and threadfin bream. Seasonal restrictions and quota regulations reduce production capacity by about 10%, leading to unstable product pricing. Nearly 30% of manufacturers report increased dependence on imported fish, resulting in supply chain inefficiencies and cost pressures on processing operations.

CHALLENGE

"High Processing Costs and Cold Chain Limitations"

Processing surimi requires strict temperature control, with refrigeration and energy costs accounting for nearly 25% of total production expenses. Around 18% of losses occur due to inefficient cold chain management during transportation and storage. Energy consumption for freezing and preservation has risen by about 12%, directly impacting profitability. Additionally, maintenance costs for cold storage facilities have increased by nearly 10%, prompting 35% of manufacturers to explore energy-efficient and localized production strategies to reduce operational costs.

Segmentation Analysis

The Global Surimi Market, valued at USD 1.66 Billion in 2025, is projected to reach USD 3.26 Billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 7.8%. The market is segmented by type and application, with frozen surimi leading in overall consumption. Among applications, the food industry dominates due to strong consumer preference for seafood-based convenience products. The segmentation analysis highlights evolving product innovations, regional consumption shifts, and the expanding role of sustainable sourcing in shaping global surimi demand.

By Type

Frozen Surimi

Frozen surimi is the most widely used type, holding nearly 60% of the total market share in 2025. Its extended shelf life and suitability for international trade make it highly preferred in both retail and industrial sectors. Demand is driven by food manufacturers utilizing frozen surimi in imitation crab and fish-based snacks across Asia and North America.

Frozen Surimi held the largest share in the surimi market, accounting for USD 0.996 Billion in 2025, representing approximately 60% of the total market. This segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.1% from 2025 to 2034, driven by growing seafood consumption, improved freezing technologies, and strong export demand from Asian countries.

Chilled Surimi

Chilled surimi is gaining traction in developed markets where consumers prefer fresh, minimally processed seafood. It captures nearly 25% of the global market share, supported by improved cold chain infrastructure and increasing demand for high-quality seafood substitutes.

Chilled Surimi accounted for USD 0.415 Billion in 2025, representing about 25% of the total market. The segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% during 2025–2034, driven by advancements in refrigeration logistics, rising consumption in Europe, and growing retail availability of chilled seafood products.

Fresh Surimi

Fresh surimi, although limited in shelf life, appeals to regional and local markets emphasizing freshness and authenticity. It holds nearly 15% of the global share in 2025, supported by artisanal seafood producers and small-scale food processors.

Fresh Surimi accounted for USD 0.249 Billion in 2025, representing 15% of the total market, and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% through 2034. Growth is driven by local consumption patterns, sustainable fishing practices, and rising interest in premium seafood alternatives in coastal regions.

By Application

Food Industry

The food industry dominates the surimi market, holding nearly 65% of total demand. Surimi is extensively used in ready-to-eat and processed seafood products such as imitation crab, fish balls, and tempura. The sector benefits from growing consumer interest in protein-rich convenience foods.

The Food Industry accounted for USD 1.08 Billion in 2025, representing 65% of the total market. It is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.0% from 2025 to 2034, driven by the expansion of quick-service restaurants, demand for frozen seafood, and the popularity of Japanese cuisine worldwide.

Pharmaceutical Industry

The pharmaceutical sector uses surimi extracts for their protein and amino acid content in supplements and formulations. This segment captures around 10% of the total market, reflecting its niche but growing role in health and nutrition products.

The Pharmaceutical Industry accounted for USD 0.166 Billion in 2025, representing 10% of the market. It is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.5% through 2034, driven by the rise in marine-based collagen and protein supplement demand across global health industries.

Animal Feed

Surimi residues and protein extracts are increasingly used in animal feed formulations. This segment represents about 15% of the total market, benefiting from demand for high-quality protein sources in aquaculture and poultry feed.

The Animal Feed segment accounted for USD 0.249 Billion in 2025, representing 15% of total market revenue, and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.0% through 2034. The growth is fueled by aquaculture expansion and improved utilization of seafood by-products.

Pet Food

Surimi-based proteins are gaining popularity in premium pet food products, favored for their digestibility and nutritional profile. The segment holds around 10% share, with steady growth across developed pet care markets.

The Pet Food segment accounted for USD 0.166 Billion in 2025, representing 10% of the total market, with a projected CAGR of 7.6% through 2034. Growth is driven by premium pet nutrition trends, increasing pet ownership, and demand for natural seafood ingredients.

Surimi Market Regional Outlook

The Global Surimi Market, valued at USD 1.66 Billion in 2025, is projected to reach USD 3.26 Billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 7.8%. Asia-Pacific dominates the global surimi market, followed by Europe, North America, and the Middle East & Africa. The market share distribution by region includes Asia-Pacific at 55%, Europe at 20%, North America at 15%, and the Middle East & Africa at 10%. The regional outlook reflects shifting consumption patterns, expanding seafood industries, and rising demand for protein-rich diets.

North America

North America’s surimi market continues to grow due to rising consumption of ready-to-eat seafood and imitation crab products. The United States remains the leading consumer, accounting for a large portion of regional demand. Surimi products have gained popularity among health-conscious consumers seeking high-protein, low-fat alternatives. Frozen and chilled surimi dominate the regional product mix, making up nearly 75% of sales. Retail distribution channels represent about 60% of total surimi purchases, supported by expanding supermarket availability and seafood-based snack trends.

North America held a 15% share in the global surimi market, valued at USD 0.25 Billion in 2025. The market is projected to expand steadily through 2034, driven by product innovation, sustainable seafood sourcing, and growing popularity of Japanese cuisine.

Europe

Europe’s surimi market holds strong presence, driven by consumer demand for convenient seafood alternatives and sustainable protein sources. France, Spain, and the UK remain key contributors. Processed seafood snacks and chilled surimi products dominate with nearly 70% of total consumption. The region benefits from advanced cold chain systems and seafood innovation. About 30% of European consumers purchase surimi-based products regularly, influenced by health and diet preferences emphasizing lean protein and reduced fat intake.

Europe held a 20% share of the global surimi market in 2025, equivalent to USD 0.33 Billion. Growth is supported by increased retail availability, clean-label product launches, and high penetration in supermarkets and food service sectors.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific dominates the global surimi market with strong production and export capabilities. The region accounts for more than half of the total global demand, led by Japan, China, and Thailand. Surimi is a key ingredient in fish-based snacks, sushi, and traditional cuisines. Over 60% of surimi produced in the region is exported to North America and Europe. Rapid urbanization, growing seafood consumption, and rising disposable incomes continue to fuel market expansion across Asian countries.

Asia-Pacific held the largest share of 55% in the global surimi market, valued at USD 0.91 Billion in 2025. The region’s growth is driven by technological advancements in seafood processing, strong aquaculture output, and increasing consumption of protein-rich convenience foods.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa surimi market is emerging steadily, supported by increasing seafood imports and growing consumer awareness of processed fish products. The region’s demand is primarily driven by urbanization, changing dietary habits, and rising middle-class consumption. Frozen surimi dominates the market with about 80% share, given its extended shelf life and easy distribution. The hospitality and food service industries play a major role in expanding surimi applications in quick-service and casual dining menus.

The Middle East & Africa region accounted for 10% of the global surimi market in 2025, valued at USD 0.166 Billion. Market growth is supported by expanding retail seafood availability, increasing Western food influence, and investment in cold storage infrastructure.

List of Key Surimi Market Companies Profiled

Investment Analysis and Opportunities in Surimi Market

The surimi market offers strong investment potential, supported by a 25% rise in demand for protein-rich seafood alternatives and 20% growth in sustainable product categories. Over 40% of investors are focusing on plant-based and hybrid surimi ventures, while 30% of funding is directed toward cold chain infrastructure and automation. Asia-Pacific attracts about 50% of the total investments due to its established seafood processing network. Around 35% of companies are channeling capital into R&D for texture enhancement and flavor innovation. With rising consumer preference for convenience and high-protein diets, surimi producers are expanding manufacturing facilities and partnerships to meet a 40% increase in export demand.

New Products Development

New product development in the surimi market is gaining traction, with 45% of manufacturers introducing plant-based and sustainable variants. Approximately 30% of launches feature clean-label formulations, emphasizing natural preservatives and eco-friendly packaging. Companies are focusing on flavor innovation, with 25% of new products tailored to local taste preferences in Asia and Europe. Over 35% of brands are developing ready-to-eat and frozen surimi meals aimed at retail consumers. Additionally, 20% of companies have incorporated functional ingredients such as omega-3 and seaweed extracts to enhance nutritional profiles. This innovation-driven approach is strengthening market competitiveness and widening consumer appeal across global markets.

Recent Developments

• Nippon Suisan Kaisha: Introduced a new range of low-fat surimi products, improving protein content by 18% and reducing sodium levels by 12%, targeting the health-conscious consumer segment.
• Thai Union Group: Expanded its frozen surimi production capacity by 20% through new processing plants in Southeast Asia to meet the growing export demand in Europe and North America.
• Maruha Nichiro: Launched eco-certified surimi sourced from 100% sustainable fisheries, increasing its environmentally responsible product portfolio by 25%.
• Dongwon Industries: Developed advanced cold chain logistics that reduced product spoilage rates by 15% and improved export efficiency across South Korea and Japan.
• Vietnam Surimi: Partnered with regional seafood cooperatives to boost raw material supply by 30%, ensuring consistent production and higher export capacity to Asian and European markets.

Report Coverage

The surimi market report provides a comprehensive assessment of market dynamics, including SWOT analysis, competitive landscape, and regional insights. Strengths include a 55% dominance of Asia-Pacific production capacity and 60% global preference for frozen surimi products, reflecting a robust supply chain. Weaknesses lie in fluctuating raw material availability and a 15% dependency on imported whitefish resources. Opportunities stem from a 40% rise in demand for sustainable and plant-based surimi variants, offering expansion potential for new entrants. However, threats persist due to increasing production costs, which account for nearly 25% of total manufacturing expenses, and environmental regulations impacting fish sourcing. The report highlights that 50% of the market players are investing in innovation to enhance shelf life and reduce energy costs. Additionally, over 35% of global production facilities are adopting eco-friendly packaging and green processing methods. The surimi market coverage emphasizes strategic partnerships, technological advancements, and regional production hubs that together are reshaping the competitive framework and accelerating industry growth.