Global Shrimp Market Size and Forecast 2025–2033: Demand, Sustainability, and the Future of Seafood

Global Shrimp Market Overview

The global shrimp market continues to strengthen its position as one of the most valuable and dynamic segments of the global seafood industry. In 2024, the shrimp market was valued at USD 68.84 billion and is projected to reach USD 102.48 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.52% from 2025 to 2033, according to Renub Research.

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This steady growth reflects shifting global food preferences, rising awareness of protein-rich diets, and technological advancements in aquaculture that have transformed shrimp from a seasonal delicacy into a year-round staple for millions of consumers worldwide.

Shrimp are small aquatic crustaceans found in both freshwater and marine environments. Their versatility, mild flavor, and nutritional value make them a preferred seafood choice across cultures and cuisines. From Asian stir-fries and European pasta dishes to American shrimp cocktails and tacos, shrimp has become a truly global ingredient.

Why Shrimp Consumption Is Rising Worldwide

Shrimp consumption has surged globally due to three key reasons: nutrition, convenience, and availability. Shrimp are low in fat, high in protein, and rich in essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, iodine, and selenium. As consumers become increasingly health-conscious, seafood—particularly shrimp—has emerged as a preferred alternative to red meat and processed proteins.

Urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and globalization of food culture have further accelerated shrimp demand. Restaurants, food service chains, and home cooks alike value shrimp for its quick cooking time and adaptability to different flavors and cuisines.

At the same time, improvements in aquaculture technology have stabilized supply, making shrimp accessible and affordable across both developed and emerging markets.

Key Growth Drivers in the Global Shrimp Market

1. Rising Demand for Protein-Rich and Healthy Seafood

The global shift toward healthier eating is a major driver of shrimp market expansion. Shrimp provide high-quality protein with minimal calories, making them ideal for fitness-conscious and aging populations. In emerging economies, rising middle-class incomes are also expanding seafood consumption, particularly in urban areas.

Changing dietary habits and the growing popularity of international cuisine have placed shrimp at the center of restaurant menus and grocery aisles. In Europe, shrimp prices ranged from USD 33/kg to USD 67/kg in the first half of 2023, reflecting strong demand and premium positioning in the market.

Product innovation is also playing a role. For instance, SeaPak launched its Southern Style Jumbo Shrimp in the U.S. in February 2022, while Beaver Street Fisheries introduced a New England–style shrimp boil in November 2023, catering to the rising demand for flavorful, easy-to-prepare seafood options.

2. Expansion of Aquaculture and Sustainable Farming

Aquaculture has become the backbone of the global shrimp supply. Countries such as India, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Ecuador have invested heavily in modern hatcheries, biosecure farming, and disease management systems to increase yields and improve quality.

Sustainability is now a key market differentiator. Certifications such as ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) and BAP (Best Aquaculture Practices) help producers access premium international markets while assuring consumers of ethical production.

Technological advancements in feed efficiency, selective breeding, and water management have reduced environmental impact while increasing productivity. According to the FAO, global aquatic food consumption has been rising at 3% annually since 1961, highlighting long-term demand momentum.

3. Growth of Processed and Value-Added Shrimp Products

Convenience is reshaping the seafood industry. Busy lifestyles, e-commerce growth, and expanding cold-chain infrastructure have boosted demand for frozen, breaded, pre-cooked, and ready-to-cook shrimp.

Foodservice providers and quick-service restaurants prefer value-added shrimp due to consistency, shelf life, and ease of preparation. Improved packaging and freezing technologies now allow shrimp to travel long distances without compromising freshness.

This trend not only increases consumer choice but also improves profit margins for producers, driving sustained global market expansion.

Challenges Facing the Global Shrimp Market

Disease Outbreaks and Biosecurity Risks

Shrimp farming remains vulnerable to diseases such as Early Mortality Syndrome (EMS) and White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV), which can severely disrupt production and trade. Small-scale farmers are particularly affected due to limited access to biosecurity infrastructure.

Overuse of antibiotics poses environmental risks and can lead to export restrictions. Continued investment in disease-resistant shrimp strains, water quality management, and diagnostic tools is essential for long-term industry stability.

Price Volatility and Trade Uncertainty

Shrimp prices fluctuate due to changes in production volume, feed costs, and global trade policies. Oversupply from major producers can drive prices down, while rising logistics and feed costs pressure farmer profitability.

Trade barriers, certification requirements, and currency fluctuations also complicate global shrimp trade. Addressing these issues requires coordination between governments, producers, and global trade organizations.

Shrimp Market by Species

Penaeus monodon (Black Tiger Shrimp)

P. monodon remains a premium species known for its large size and rich flavor. Although disease outbreaks once reduced its production, selective breeding and improved hatchery systems have revived interest. It commands high prices in gourmet and hospitality markets, especially in Asia, Europe, and North America.

Macrobrachium rosenbergii (Giant Freshwater Prawn)

Popular in Asia, this freshwater species is valued for its size and taste. Though growth rates are slower than marine shrimp, advancements in feed and temperature control are improving productivity. Demand is rising in domestic and export markets alike.

Shrimp Market by Size Category

26–30 Count Shrimp

The 26–30 count category is the most widely traded due to its balance of size, price, and versatility. It is widely used in both retail and foodservice sectors and remains a backbone of global shrimp trade.

41–50 Count Shrimp

This smaller shrimp category is popular for home cooking, frozen meals, and processed foods. Its affordability and ease of use make it particularly attractive in developing markets and institutional foodservice.

Shrimp Market by Product Form

Cooked Shrimp

Pre-cooked shrimp are gaining strong traction as consumers seek convenience. Widely used in salads, sushi, and fast food, this segment benefits from improved freezing and packaging technologies that extend shelf life and maintain quality.

Green / Head-On Shrimp

Head-on shrimp appeal to premium buyers and restaurants seeking freshness and visual appeal. This segment is especially strong in Asian and Mediterranean cuisines and continues to grow with rising interest in whole-food dining experiences.

Regional Shrimp Market Insights

United States Shrimp Market

The U.S. is the world’s largest shrimp consumer, with shrimp ranking as the most consumed seafood. Imports from India, Ecuador, and Indonesia dominate supply. Sustainability and traceability are increasingly influencing purchasing decisions, while frozen and ready-to-cook shrimp drive retail growth.

Germany Shrimp Market

Germany is a key European shrimp market, driven by demand for sustainably sourced seafood. Consumers favor frozen and value-added products, and certifications such as ASC and MSC are highly valued. Retail and hospitality sectors remain strong growth drivers.

India Shrimp Market

India is both a major producer and exporter of shrimp. Supported by favorable climate, government initiatives, and modern processing facilities, India plays a critical role in the global supply chain. Domestic consumption is also rising due to urbanization and dietary shifts.

Saudi Arabia Shrimp Market

Saudi Arabia’s shrimp market is expanding as part of Vision 2030, which emphasizes food security and aquaculture investment. The Red Sea coastline offers ideal conditions for shrimp farming, while sustainable technologies and imports help meet rising domestic demand.

Global Shrimp Market Segmentation

By Species

L. vannamei

P. monodon

M. rosenbergii

Others

By Size

<15, 15–20, 21–25, 26–30, 31–40, 41–50, 51–60, 61–70, >70

By Product Form

Breaded

Cooked

Peeled

Green (Head-off)

Green (Head-on)

Other Forms

Key Players in the Global Shrimp Market

Leading companies shaping the global shrimp industry include:

Avanti Feeds Ltd.

High Liner Foods Inc.

Surapon Foods

Thai Union Group

The Waterbase Ltd.

Royal Greenland

Maruha Nichiro Corporation

Mowi ASA

Charoen Pokphand Foods PCL

Each of these players competes on product quality, sustainability, innovation, and global reach.

Final Thoughts: The Future of the Global Shrimp Industry

The global shrimp market is on a steady growth path, supported by health trends, aquaculture innovation, and expanding global trade. While challenges such as disease and price volatility remain, investments in sustainability, technology, and value-added processing are reshaping the industry’s future.

With shrimp now firmly established as a staple protein across cultures, the market’s journey from USD 68.84 billion in 2024 to USD 102.48 billion by 2033 reflects not just growth—but a transformation in how the world produces and consumes seafood.

As sustainability, convenience, and nutrition continue to drive consumer choices, shrimp will remain a cornerstone of the global seafood economy for years to come.