• In November 2023, Canada’s Premium Brands Holdings bolstered its seafood division by acquiring Quebec’s fish and seafood distributor Menu‑Mer, enhancing its distribution network and product range across the region.

• In October 2023, Japan’s Nippon Suisan Kaisha (Nissui) acquired Denmark’s fresh‑fish processor Hanstholm, followed by the acquisition of Netherlands‑based Maxima Seafood, integrating both into its Nordic Seafood business unit.

In this report, the Fish Processing Market has been segmented by Category, Sources, Species, Equipment, Application, and Geography.

Fish Processing Market, Segmentation by Category

The Fish Processing Market has been segmented by Category into Frozen and Preserved.

Frozen

The frozen segment dominates the fish processing market, accounting for approximately 67%. Frozen fish products, including fillets, steaks, whole fish, and value-added products, offer extended shelf life and easy global distribution. The rising demand for convenient and ready-to-cook seafood, particularly in North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific, is fueling strong growth in this segment.

Preserved

The preserved segment holds about 33% of the fish processing market. Preserved fish products such as canned fish, smoked fish, salted fish, and marinated fish are popular for their long shelf life and ready-to-eat convenience. The growing trend toward healthy snacking and increasing demand for high-protein shelf-stable foods are driving steady growth in this segment globally.

Fish Processing Market, Segmentation by Sources

The Fish Processing Market has been segmented by Sources into Marine and Inland.

Marine

The marine segment dominates the fish processing market, accounting for approximately 71%. Marine sources, including saltwater fish such as cod, tuna, salmon, and mackerel, provide a diverse and abundant supply for processed seafood products. The growing global demand for premium marine fish, increasing exports of frozen and canned marine fish, and advancements in cold chain logistics are fueling robust growth in this segment.

Inland

The inland segment holds about 29% of the fish processing market. Inland sources include freshwater fish such as tilapia, catfish, carp, and trout, which are widely cultivated in aquaculture systems. The rising popularity of locally farmed fish, growing consumer demand for sustainable seafood, and the expansion of freshwater aquaculture are driving steady growth in this segment worldwide.

Fish Processing Market, Segmentation by Species

The Fish Processing Market has been segmented by Species into Fish, Crustaceans and Mollusks.

Fish

The fish segment dominates the fish processing market, accounting for approximately 68%. This segment includes a wide variety of species such as salmon, cod, tuna, haddock, and tilapia, which are processed into frozen fillets, canned products, salted fish, and ready-to-cook seafood. Rising global demand for protein-rich diets and the growing popularity of healthy fish-based meals are driving robust growth in this segment.

Crustaceans

The crustaceans segment holds about 19% of the fish processing market. Key products include shrimp, crab, and lobster, which are highly valued in premium seafood markets. Increasing consumption of ready-to-eat shrimp and rising demand for frozen crustacean products in foodservice and retail channels are fueling steady growth in this segment worldwide.

Mollusks

The mollusks segment contributes approximately 13% of the market. Species such as clams, mussels, squid, and octopus are processed into frozen, canned, and value-added products for global consumption. Growing consumer interest in gourmet seafood dishes and increasing demand for sustainably sourced mollusks are driving growth in this segment across both developed and emerging markets.

Fish Processing Market, Segmentation by Equipment

The Fish Processing Market has been segmented by Equipment into Slaughtering, Gutting, Scaling, Filleting, Deboning, Skinning and Curing & Smokin.

Slaughtering

The slaughtering segment holds approximately 18% of the fish processing market. Automated slaughtering equipment ensures hygienic processing and improves operational efficiency in fish processing plants. The rising demand for high-throughput systems and increasing adoption of advanced slaughtering technologies to meet stringent food safety standards are driving growth in this segment.

Gutting

The gutting segment accounts for about 16% of the market. Efficient gutting equipment helps maintain product quality and extends the shelf life of processed fish. Growing demand for automated gutting machines that offer precision and reduced labor dependency is fueling steady growth in this segment across both marine and inland fish processing industries.

Scaling

The scaling segment contributes approximately 12% of the fish processing market. Fish scalers are essential for preparing fish for further processing or direct consumption. The increasing demand for uniform scaling and enhanced product presentation is driving the adoption of automated scaling solutions in modern fish processing facilities.

Filleting

The filleting segment dominates with about 24% of the market. Filleting machines are critical for producing high-quality fillets with minimal product waste. The rising demand for boneless fish fillets and value-added seafood products, particularly in retail and foodservice sectors, is fueling strong growth in this segment globally.

Deboning

The deboning segment holds around 11% of the fish processing market. Deboning equipment enhances processing efficiency and ensures bone-free products that meet consumer expectations for ready-to-eat seafood. The growing demand for processed fish fillets and premium fish portions is supporting growth in this segment.

Skinning

The skinning segment accounts for approximately 10% of the market. Skinning machines are used to produce skinless fillets for a variety of applications in the retail, catering, and hospitality sectors. Increasing demand for high-quality skinless fish products and the need for efficient skinning processes are driving growth in this segment.

Curing & Smoking

The curing & smoking segment contributes about 9% of the fish processing market. Curing and smoking equipment are used to enhance the flavor, texture, and shelf life of processed fish products. The growing popularity of smoked fish, traditional cured products, and artisanal seafood is fueling demand for advanced curing & smoking technologies.

Fish Processing Market, Segmentation by Application

The Fish Processing Market has been segmented by Application into Food and Non-Food.

Food

The food segment dominates the fish processing market, accounting for approximately 88%. Processed fish is widely used in the production of frozen fish fillets, canned fish, smoked products, fish sausages, and ready-to-eat seafood meals. The growing global demand for high-protein diets, healthy seafood options, and convenient meal solutions is driving strong growth in this segment across both developed and emerging markets.

Non-Food

The non-food segment holds about 12% of the fish processing market. Non-food applications include the use of fish by-products in the production of fish oil, fish meal, pharmaceutical ingredients, cosmetics, and nutraceuticals. Increasing demand for omega-3 fatty acids and the rising adoption of sustainable fish processing practices to maximize by-product utilization are fueling growth in this segment.

Fish Processing Market, Segmentation by Geography

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

Fish Processing Market Share (%), by Geographical Region

North America

North America holds a significant 28% share of the fish processing market. The region is driven by strong demand for processed seafood products, particularly in the United States and Canada. Growing consumer preference for high-quality frozen fish fillets, ready-to-eat seafood meals, and premium value-added products is fueling robust market growth across North America.

Europe

Europe accounts for approximately 24% of the fish processing market. The region has a well-established tradition of consuming smoked fish, canned seafood, and salted fish products. Strong demand for sustainably sourced seafood, increasing investments in automated fish processing technologies, and growing popularity of premium gourmet seafood are driving market expansion in countries such as Norway, Spain, France, and the UK.

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific leads the fish processing market with an estimated 34% share. The region’s growth is fueled by a large and growing consumer base, rising seafood consumption in China, Japan, India, Vietnam, and Thailand, and significant investment in aquaculture and fish processing infrastructure. Increasing exports of processed marine fish and value-added seafood products further support strong market growth.

Middle East and Africa

The Middle East and Africa region contributes about 8% to the fish processing market. The market is driven by rising demand for frozen seafood and premium fish products in countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and South Africa. Increasing urbanization and expanding retail and foodservice sectors are supporting the growing adoption of processed fish products across the region.

Latin America

Latin America represents approximately 6% of the fish processing market. Brazil, Chile, Peru, and Mexico are key markets, supported by a strong tradition of fish consumption and growing exports of processed seafood. Rising demand for high-value fish products and increasing investment in modern fish processing facilities are fueling steady growth across this region.

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

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers

• Rising seafood consumption globally
• Technological advancements in processing
• Growing demand for healthy food

• Increasing export opportunities - Rising export opportunities are giving the fish processing market fresh momentum. Rapid population growth and a shift toward high-protein, low-fat diets have pushed demand for processed seafood—frozen fillets, canned tuna, smoked salmon, and surimi—to record levels in North America, Europe, and fast-growing Asian economies. Extended shelf life and convenient value-added formats make these products ideal for overseas buyers.

  Improved trade agreements and tariff reductions now allow leading producers in Norway, Chile, Vietnam, and India to ship larger volumes with fewer bureaucratic hurdles. Investments in automated plants, cold-chain logistics, and strict hazard-analysis controls ensure shipments comply with the toughest import regulations, boosting buyer confidence and brand reputation.

  Advanced flash-freezing, vacuum packaging, and blockchain traceability keep texture, flavor, and nutrient value intact throughout lengthy transit. Smaller processors benefit, too: digital B2B platforms link niche suppliers directly with foreign distributors, expanding their international footprint without traditional middlemen.

  As consumers seek ready-to-eat seafood, global flavors, and healthier proteins, the export channel continues to widen. This surge encourages governments and private investors to pour capital into modern plants, stringent quality programs, and training, cementing exports as a primary growth engine for the fish processing sector.

Restraints

• Environmental regulations and policies
• High processing and operational costs
• Supply chain disruptions

• Resource depletion and sustainability concerns - The industry’s progress faces a brake in the form of resource depletion and mounting sustainability concerns. Decades of overfishing and rampant IUU (illegal, unreported, and unregulated) activity have depleted key stocks, tightening raw-material supply and inflating costs for processors worldwide.

  Environmental NGOs and national regulators respond with stricter catch quotas, eco-certification demands, and traceability audits. While vital for marine health, these rules add compliance expenses and can slow production—especially for small and midsize processors lacking capital to adapt quickly.

  Eco-aware consumers are voting with their wallets, favoring brands boasting visible MSC or ASC labels and transparent supply chains. Companies perceived as lagging in sustainability risk reputational damage and shelf-space losses to greener competitors.

  Complicating the picture, climate change is altering migration routes and spawning cycles, injecting volatility into sourcing strategies. In this environment, long-term growth depends not just on processing efficiency, but on responsible resource management and collaboration with sustainable fisheries.

Opportunities

• Expansion in emerging markets
• Innovative processing technologies
• Increased consumer health awareness

• Sustainable and eco-friendly practices - Embracing sustainable, eco-friendly practices has evolved from niche ideal to mainstream opportunity for the fish processing market. Brands that champion responsible sourcing, renewable energy, and minimal waste enjoy stronger resonance with retailers, regulators, and a growing base of climate-conscious consumers.

  Globally recognized badges like Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) serve as powerful trust signals. Products carrying these labels often command premium pricing and secure preferential shelf placement in North America and Europe, giving certified processors a measurable competitive edge.

  Innovation extends beyond the supply chain. Companies are moving to biodegradable or recyclable packaging, converting fish trimmings into pet food, fertilizers, and omega-rich nutraceuticals, and installing water- and energy-saving equipment—all steps that cut costs, open new revenue streams, and shrink the corporate carbon footprint.

  Public grants and private capital are increasingly directed toward green technologies, circular-economy projects, and low-impact aquaculture. Firms that lead on sustainability not only future-proof their operations against tightening regulations but also position themselves as preferred partners in a market where environmental responsibility is rapidly becoming the baseline expectation.

Key players in Fish Processing Market include:

• Maruha Nichiro Corporation
• Nippon Suisan Kaisha, Ltd
• Thai Union Group
• Austevoll Seafood ASA
• New Zealand King Salmon Co. Ltd
• Sanderson Farms, Inc
• Mowi ASA
• High Liner Foods Inc
• Stolt-Nielsen Limited
• Young’s Seafood Limited

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Market Share Analysis
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis