Global Shrimp Market Size and Forecast 2025–2033

Overview: Global Shrimp Market Riding a Wave of Growth

The global shrimp market, valued at USD 68.84 billion in 2024, is forecasted to surge to USD 102.48 billion by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 4.52% between 2025 and 2033, according to Renub Research.

This impressive growth reflects the world’s evolving dietary habits, growing emphasis on high-protein seafood, and major advances in aquaculture technology.

Shrimp, one of the world’s most consumed seafood varieties, has become a culinary staple across regions — from Asia’s spicy curries and European pastas to America’s shrimp cocktails. As consumer preferences move toward convenient, protein-rich, and sustainable foods, shrimp continues to dominate both household kitchens and restaurant menus.

What Makes Shrimp a Global Favorite

Shrimp’s appeal lies in its nutritional profile and culinary versatility. It’s low in calories, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and provides high-quality protein, making it a healthy alternative to red meat. Its mild flavor allows it to be used in diverse cuisines — grilled, fried, sautéed, or served raw in sushi.

Furthermore, technological innovations in aquaculture have ensured a stable and scalable shrimp supply. Countries like India, Ecuador, Vietnam, and Indonesia have become aquaculture powerhouses, exporting millions of tons of shrimp annually to markets such as the U.S., Japan, and Europe.

Sustainability efforts — including biosecure farming, disease-resistant shrimp strains, and traceability certifications (ASC, BAP) — have also enhanced consumer trust and long-term industry viability.

Key Growth Drivers

1. Health-Driven Seafood Consumption

The global shift toward healthy eating is a powerful force behind shrimp market expansion. Shrimp is low in fat yet rich in essential nutrients, making it ideal for health-conscious consumers. Rising urbanization, disposable incomes, and globalized food trends have introduced shrimp into diverse diets, from frozen meals to fine dining.

For instance, SeaPak’s Southern Style Jumbo Shrimp launched in 2022 in the U.S. and Beaver Street Fisheries’ Sea Best Seafood Festival line in 2023 exemplify how brands are responding to consumer demand for flavorful yet convenient seafood options.

As the world’s population increasingly embraces seafood-based diets, shrimp is emerging as the protein of choice for sustainable nutrition.

2. Expansion of Sustainable Aquaculture

Aquaculture has evolved from traditional coastal farming to highly managed, technology-driven systems. Nations like India, Ecuador, and Indonesia have adopted advanced biosecurity measures, water recycling systems, and genetic selection programs to enhance yield and disease resistance.

According to the FAO’s “State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2022”, global aquatic food consumption has grown steadily by around 3% annually since 1961, underscoring the long-term potential for aquaculture-based industries.

Sustainability certifications like ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) and BAP (Best Aquaculture Practices) also help exporters gain access to high-value international markets, supporting environmentally responsible seafood production.

3. Surge in Processed and Value-Added Shrimp Products

As modern consumers prioritize convenience, demand for frozen, breaded, and pre-cooked shrimp has soared. Urban professionals prefer ready-to-eat seafood options that save time without compromising nutrition.

Moreover, value-added packaging, cold-chain logistics, and retail expansion through supermarkets and e-commerce have significantly improved shrimp product accessibility worldwide.

This trend has fueled profitability for producers while offering consumers broader choices — from frozen shrimp platters to gourmet cooked varieties.

Key Challenges

1. Disease Outbreaks and Biosecurity Risks

Shrimp aquaculture faces periodic disruptions from diseases such as White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) and Early Mortality Syndrome (EMS). These outbreaks can devastate production, causing billions in economic losses.

Maintaining strict biosecurity protocols, improving diagnostic systems, and reducing antibiotic dependency remain crucial to ensuring a stable supply chain. Research into disease-resistant shrimp varieties and improved hatchery management is vital for long-term sustainability.

2. Market Volatility and Trade Uncertainty

The shrimp industry is highly sensitive to fluctuations in feed prices, exchange rates, and global trade regulations. Overproduction in major exporting nations often leads to price drops, while increased freight costs and tariffs squeeze profit margins.

Inconsistent quality standards and certification requirements across countries further complicate trade. Hence, greater coordination among producers, governments, and global regulators is necessary to stabilize pricing and promote fair competition.

Market Insights by Segment

By Species

L. vannamei (Whiteleg Shrimp): The most farmed species worldwide, known for high productivity and adaptability.

P. monodon (Black Tiger Shrimp): Premium species prized for its flavor and size, popular in upscale markets across Asia and Europe.

M. rosenbergii (Giant Freshwater Prawn): Known for freshwater adaptability and strong taste, particularly significant in Southeast Asian aquaculture.

By Size Category

26–30 count shrimp remain the industry’s commercial backbone — widely used in restaurants, frozen foods, and retail packaging.

41–50 count shrimp dominate the household and processed food segment due to affordability and convenience.

By Product Form

Cooked shrimp are witnessing exponential growth, catering to the convenience-seeking segment in North America and Europe.

Green/head-on shrimp continue to attract premium consumers and chefs who prioritize freshness and presentation in gourmet cuisines.

Regional Analysis

United States

The U.S. shrimp market remains the largest consumer segment globally. Imports from India, Ecuador, and Indonesia fulfill most domestic demand. The market thrives on frozen, ready-to-cook shrimp and products that emphasize sustainability and traceability.

Retail expansion and rising health awareness continue to drive steady growth, with innovative product launches strengthening the industry’s reach.

Germany

Germany leads shrimp consumption in Europe, emphasizing sustainability and certification. Imports mainly come from Asia and Latin America, with consumers preferring peeled, frozen, and ready-to-eat shrimp.

The market’s focus on environmentally conscious consumption and seafood transparency has made ASC and MSC labels essential for brand competitiveness.

India

India is both a global production hub and a major exporter of shrimp. With its long coastline and favorable aquaculture climate, it dominates the supply of P. vannamei and P. monodon species.

Government initiatives supporting disease management, processing infrastructure, and cold-chain logistics are helping India sustain its leadership in the global shrimp trade, even as domestic consumption steadily rises.

Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Arabian shrimp market is expanding rapidly, powered by Vision 2030 initiatives that promote food security and aquaculture diversification.

The Red Sea’s favorable environment supports species such as P. indicus and P. vannamei, while new recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) improve production efficiency and water recycling.

As an example, a consortium in Abu Dhabi launched a project capable of producing 2,000 metric tons of premium seafood, recycling over 99.5% of water — a strong step toward sustainability. Meanwhile, companies like Orffa are enhancing shrimp health and yields through advanced nutritional solutions.

Competitive Landscape

Major global players are investing in innovation, sustainability, and vertical integration to ensure quality control and global reach.

Leading companies 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

These firms are expanding into value-added shrimp, developing eco-friendly farming models, and adopting AI-driven aquaculture monitoring systems to enhance production efficiency and quality consistency.

Final Thoughts: The Sustainable Future of Shrimp

The global shrimp market stands at the intersection of nutrition, technology, and sustainability. As aquaculture evolves and consumers demand transparency and health-driven food choices, shrimp will remain at the heart of global seafood trends.

While disease risks, price instability, and regulatory complexities persist, continuous investment in innovation and sustainable farming will ensure that shrimp — the world’s most beloved seafood — continues to thrive from the farms of Asia to the plates of Europe and North America.

The next decade will not just be about volume growth, but about creating a responsible and resilient shrimp ecosystem that feeds the planet sustainably.