Global Aquaculture Market to Reach 122.9 Million Tons by 2033: Key Trends and Growth Forecast

Market Size & Growth

• Market Size (2024): 82.8 Million Tons
• Projected Market Size (2033): 122.9 Million Tons
• Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) (2025–2033): 4.03%

Key Market Drivers:

• Rising Global Demand for Fish and Seafood Products
• Adoption of Technologically Advanced Aquaculture Systems
• Decline in Wild Fish Stocks and Increasing Reliance on Farmed Fish

Emerging Trends

• Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Aquaculture Practices
• Innovation in Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS)
• Expanding Use of Functional Feeds and Biotechnology

Segmentation Highlights

• Analysis by Fish Type
• Analysis by Environment:
• Analysis by Distribution Channel
• Regional Insights

Market Overview:

According to IMARC Group's latest research publication, the global aquaculture market size was valued at 82.8 Million Tons in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach 122.9 Million Tons by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.03% during 2025-2033

This in-depth analysis covers industry volume, consumption trends, market share, growth drivers, and regional forecasts. The report provides a comprehensive overview of aquaculture dynamics, combining data from reliable sources, expert opinions, and trend assessments. It includes crucial insights into market challenges, emerging opportunities, technological developments, and environmental factors shaping the aquaculture industry. In addition, the report features a detailed regional evaluation and outlines the competitive landscape.

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Our report includes:

• Market Dynamics
• Market Trends and Market Outlook
• Competitive Analysis
• Industry Segmentation
• Strategic Recommendations

Growth Factors in the Aquaculture Market

As populations grow and dietary habits shift toward protein-rich diets, global demand for fish and seafood has risen significantly. Aquaculture offers a sustainable solution to bridge the gap created by stagnant or declining wild fish stocks. Consumers are also becoming more conscious of the health benefits associated with seafood consumption, such as high omega-3 content and lean protein, which further supports aquaculture's expansion. With nations like China and India leading consumption, producers are scaling up farming operations and expanding product portfolios to meet this growing demand.

• Adoption of Technologically Advanced Aquaculture Systems

Modern aquaculture systems have evolved dramatically with the integration of technologies such as Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS), automated feeding, and water quality monitoring sensors. These innovations are enhancing yield, improving fish health, and reducing the environmental footprint of operations. For example, several producers in Norway and Japan are adopting smart monitoring tools that optimize feed usage and manage disease risks. Such advancements not only enhance operational efficiency but also attract investment from both private and government sectors supporting blue economy initiatives.

• Decline in Wild Fish Stocks and Increasing Reliance on Farmed Fish

Overfishing and marine ecosystem degradation have led to a noticeable decline in wild fish populations. Regulatory limits on wild catch have further pressured global seafood supply chains, prompting governments and food producers to invest in aquaculture as a sustainable alternative. As aquaculture is not subject to the same natural variabilities as wild fishing, it offers greater consistency in production and pricing. Additionally, public support and environmental advocacy groups are increasingly recognizing aquaculture as a key contributor to marine conservation goals.

Key Trends in the Aquaculture Market

• Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Aquaculture Practices

The growing emphasis on sustainability has led to the adoption of eco-friendly methods such as integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA), biofloc systems, and organic aquaculture. These techniques reduce waste, lower carbon footprints, and ensure balanced ecosystems. For example, IMTA is gaining traction in Canada and Chile where different species are cultivated together to maximize resource use and reduce environmental impact. With global climate targets and consumer preferences aligning, these sustainable practices are becoming central to long-term industry strategies.

• Innovation in Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS)

RAS has emerged as a game-changer in aquaculture, enabling fish farming in land-based, controlled environments with minimal water usage and environmental discharge. These systems are particularly popular in urban and water-scarce regions. Companies like AquaBounty and Nordic Aquafarms are investing heavily in RAS to produce genetically enhanced, high-yield fish. The scalability and low environmental impact of RAS are drawing the attention of investors and governments focused on future-proofing food security.

• Expanding Use of Functional Feeds and Biotechnology

Aquafeed innovation is transforming how farmed fish are nourished, improving growth rates, immunity, and feed conversion ratios. Functional feeds enriched with probiotics, enzymes, and micronutrients are being widely adopted. Additionally, biotechnology is being leveraged to develop disease-resistant strains and improve breeding efficiency. Gene editing techniques like CRISPR are under exploration for producing faster-growing and more resilient species, particularly in high-value markets. These innovations help reduce dependency on antibiotics and lower mortality rates in aquaculture farms.

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Leading Companies Operating in the Global Aquaculture Market Industry:

• Blue Ridge Aquaculture
• Cermaq Group AS
• Charoen Pokphand Foods PCL
• Cooke Aquaculture
• Grieg Group
• Leroy
• Maruha Nichiro Corporation
• Mowi
• SalMar ASA
• Stehr Group
• Tassal Group

Aquaculture Market Report Segmentation:

Analysis by Fish Type:

• Freshwater Fish
• Molluscs
• Crustaceans
• Others

Freshwater fish represents the largest segment as it grows under contrasting environmental conditions.

Analysis by Environment::

• Fresh Water
• Marine Water
• Brackish Water

Fresh water holds the biggest market share due to its ability to provide suitable habitats for various aquatic species.

Analysis by Distribution Channel:

• Traditional Retail
• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Specialized Retailers
• Online Stores
• Others

Traditional retail accounts for the largest market share because these stores offer a wide range of seafood products.

Regional Insights:

• North America (United States, Canada)
• Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Others)
• Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, Others)
• Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Others)
• Middle East and Africa

Asia Pacific enjoys a leading position in the aquaculture market on account of favorable government initiatives.

Research Methodology:

The report employs a comprehensive research methodology, combining primary and secondary data sources to validate findings. It includes market assessments, surveys, expert opinions, and data triangulation techniques to ensure accuracy and reliability.

Note: If you require specific details, data, or insights that are not currently included in the scope of this report, we are happy to accommodate your request. As part of our customization service, we will gather and provide the additional information you need, tailored to your specific requirements. Please let us know your exact needs, and we will ensure the report is updated accordingly to meet your expectations.

About Us:

IMARC Group is a global management consulting firm that helps the world’s most ambitious changemakers to create a lasting impact. The company provide a comprehensive suite of market entry and expansion services. IMARC offerings include thorough market assessment, feasibility studies, company incorporation assistance, factory setup support, regulatory approvals and licensing navigation, branding, marketing and sales strategies, competitive landscape and benchmarking analyses, pricing and cost research, and procurement research.

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