Global Fish Processing Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• In October 2023, Maruha Nichiro Corporation announced the merger of its subsidiaries, Maruha Nichiro Retail Service Co., Ltd. and Marine Access Corporation.

• In June 2023, Royal Greenland revealed plans to build a new fish processing factory in Tasiilaq. This facility is expected to play a vital role in advancing the fish industry and creating job opportunities and business prospects in East Greenland.

• In May 2023, Maruha Nichiro Corporation initiated a strategic alliance with its group companies and partner organizations in China. The collaboration focuses on the development, manufacturing, and trading of nursing care food menu items in the Chinese market.

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 global 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 global 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 global 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 Global Fish Processing Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers

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

• Increasing export opportunities: The global fish processing market is experiencing significant growth driven by increasing export opportunities. As consumer demand for seafood continues to rise, particularly in emerging economies, fish processing companies are seizing the opportunity to expand their market reach. Countries with abundant fish resources are leveraging these assets to boost their export activities, aiming to meet the increasing global appetite for seafood products. This trend is supported by advancements in processing technologies and increased investment in cold chain infrastructure, which enable processors to maintain product quality and extend shelf life, making their products more attractive in international markets.

  One of the key factors contributing to the expansion of export opportunities in the fish processing market is the growing popularity of fish as a source of high-quality protein. With health-conscious consumers increasingly seeking sustainable and nutritious food options, fish and seafood products have become a staple in diets around the world. This shift in consumer preferences is encouraging fish processing companies to focus on export markets where the demand for seafood is surging. Additionally, trade agreements and international partnerships are playing a pivotal role in opening new markets and facilitating smoother export processes, thereby allowing fish processing firms to reach a broader global audience.

  The expansion of export opportunities is also supported by innovative approaches in fish processing and packaging. Companies are investing in advanced technologies to improve processing efficiency, enhance product quality, and meet international food safety standards. Innovations such as vacuum packaging, freeze-drying, and value-added products are helping fish processors to offer a diverse range of products to international buyers. Furthermore, the development of sustainable fishing practices and eco-label certifications is aligning with global trends towards environmental responsibility, which is becoming a key selling point in export markets. As these trends continue, the global fish processing market is poised for sustained growth and increased export success.

Restraints

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

• Resource depletion and sustainability concerns: The global fish processing market faces significant challenges related to resource depletion and sustainability concerns. Overfishing is a critical issue, with many fish populations declining due to unsustainable fishing practices. The demand for fish products often exceeds the natural replenishment rates of fish stocks, leading to the exhaustion of key marine resources. Overfishing disrupts marine ecosystems, affecting not only fish populations but also the health of the entire oceanic environment. As a result, there is a growing need for regulatory measures and sustainable fishing practices to ensure that fish resources can meet future demands without causing long-term environmental damage.

  In response to these concerns, the fish processing industry is increasingly focusing on sustainable practices to mitigate resource depletion. This includes the adoption of responsible fishing techniques, such as quota systems, marine protected areas, and the use of more selective fishing gear to minimize bycatch. Additionally, there is a push towards the development and promotion of aquaculture as a more sustainable alternative to wild-caught fish. Aquaculture, when managed correctly, can reduce pressure on wild fish stocks and provide a stable supply of fish products. However, it also presents its own set of challenges, such as the potential for pollution and the spread of diseases among farmed fish.

  The sustainability of the fish processing market also hinges on consumer awareness and demand for eco-friendly products. There is a growing trend among consumers towards products that are certified by organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC). These certifications ensure that fish products are sourced from fisheries and farms that adhere to strict environmental and ethical standards. By aligning with these certifications, companies in the fish processing market can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and address resource depletion concerns, ultimately contributing to the long-term health of marine environments and the fish processing industry.

Opportunities

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

• Sustainable and eco-friendly practices: The global fish processing market is increasingly adopting sustainable and eco-friendly practices to address environmental concerns and meet consumer demand for responsibly sourced seafood. As the demand for fish and seafood products continues to grow, there is a significant shift towards practices that reduce the environmental impact of fish processing. Key practices include the implementation of energy-efficient technologies, reduction of waste through recycling and upcycling, and the adoption of sustainable sourcing practices. By focusing on these areas, the industry aims to minimize its carbon footprint and promote the health of aquatic ecosystems.

  One of the primary sustainable practices in the fish processing industry is the use of energy-efficient equipment and technologies. Processing facilities are investing in state-of-the-art machinery that consumes less energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the adoption of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, is becoming more prevalent. These measures not only help to lower operational costs but also contribute to the overall reduction of the industry’s environmental impact. Companies are also working on improving the efficiency of their supply chains to further reduce their carbon footprint.

  Another crucial aspect of sustainability in the fish processing market is the focus on responsible sourcing and reducing waste. Many companies are now certified by sustainability organizations, ensuring that their fish is sourced from fisheries that adhere to best practices for marine conservation. Furthermore, there is a growing emphasis on reducing waste through innovative technologies that convert by-products into valuable materials. For example, fish bones and heads are being used to produce fish meal or fish oil, which can be used in animal feed or as a dietary supplement. These practices not only support environmental sustainability but also drive economic benefits for the industry.

Key players in Global 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
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis