Aquaculture Market Research Report By Environment (Freshwater, Marine Water, Brackish Water), By Type (Fishes, Crustaceans, Mollusca, Others) and By Region (North America, Europe, South America, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa) - Forecast to 2035

Global Aquaculture Market Overview

As per MRFR analysis, the Aquaculture Market Size was estimated at 157.95 (USD Billion) in 2023.The Aquaculture Market Industry is expected to grow from 160.9(USD Billion) in 2024 to 314.72 (USD Billion) by 2035. The Aquaculture Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 6.29% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035)

Key Aquaculture Market Trends Highlighted

The  Aquaculture Market is witnessing significant trends driven by increasing consumer demand for seafood, sustainability, and advancements in technology. As populations grow and dietary preferences shift towards protein-rich foods, aquaculture presents a viable solution to meet this demand. Consumers are increasingly concerned about the sustainability of fish farming, which is propelling the adoption of eco-friendly practices. Additionally, stringent regulations on fishing and overfishing are pressuring producers to focus on responsible aquaculture practices. This shift is coupled with technological innovations such as automated feeding systems, health monitoring tools, and improved breeding techniques, which enhance productivity and sustainability within the sector.

Key market drivers include rising health consciousness among consumers, which increases the preference for farmed fish due to its perceived lower risk of contamination compared to wild-caught options. Moreover, the expansion of aquaculture in regions with favorable climatic conditions is spurring production. Countries across Asia, particularly China, India, and Vietnam, are heavily investing in aquaculture as a means to boost local economies and secure food sources.  Opportunities within the  Aquaculture Market can be explored by tapping into the demand for organic and sustainably farmed seafood products. There is also potential in developing value-added products that can cater to health-conscious consumers looking for alternatives to traditional meat.

Recent trends indicate a rising interest in innovative aquaculture systems, such as recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and integrated multitrophic aquaculture (IMTA), which promise higher efficiency and environmental benefits. As the  population continues to rise, these trends in aquaculture will likely be pivotal in ensuring food security and promoting sustainable practices.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Aquaculture Market Drivers

Increasing  Population and Demand for Protein Sources

According to United Nations forecasts, the  aquaculture market industry will be severely impacted by the growing population, which is predicted to reach 9.7 billion people by 2050. This population growth immediately translates into an increasing need for protein sources, notably from aquatic creatures. As conventional fishing methods become less sustainable, aquaculture offers a viable alternative by allowing fish and other aquatic animals to be farmed in controlled habitats.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that aquaculture is the fastest-growing food production industry, with production expected to exceed 114 million metric tons by 2020. This demonstrates the critical role of aquaculture in tackling the  food crisis and satisfying nutritional demands, particularly in poorer nations where protein deficit is still common. The growing awareness of the health benefits of seafood, combined with initiatives by organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) advocating for sustainable aquaculture practices, emphasizes the industry's importance in providing safe and reliable protein sources to a growing population.

Technological Advancements in Aquaculture Practices

Advancements in technology have played a pivotal role in modernizing the  Aquaculture Market Industry. Innovations such as automated feeding systems, water quality monitoring tools, and genetic improvement techniques have significantly increased the efficiency of fish farming operations. The introduction of aquaculture systems like Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) is also noteworthy, allowing for higher stock density with reduced environmental impact.

According to reports from industry associations, the integration of technology can lead to production increases of up to 25% while minimizing resource usage. Organizations like the  Aquaculture Alliance are actively working to support these advancements and promote best practices within the industry, indicating a robust trend towards technological innovation as a key driver of market growth.

Rising Awareness and Demand for Sustainable Seafood

As consumers become more conscious about the environmental impacts of their food choices, there is a notable rise in demand for sustainably sourced seafood. The  Aquaculture Market Industry stands to benefit significantly as it adapts to this change. Reports indicate that approximately 50% of seafood consumers prefer certifications like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), which emphasize sustainable practices.

Moreover, governments across the globe are supporting sustainable fishing regulations, actively promoting aquaculture as a means to meet seafood demand without depleting wild fish populations. According to the European Commission, the EU’s Blue Growth strategy includes initiatives to enhance aquaculture sustainability, demonstrating a commitment to encourage practices that align with consumer values and environmental considerations.

Support from Governments and International Organizations

Government initiatives and support have emerged as a crucial driver of the  Aquaculture Market Industry. Many nations are recognizing the strategic importance of aquaculture in ensuring food security and are investing in regulatory frameworks, infrastructure, and research support to foster growth in this sector. The FAO's commitment to increasing aquaculture as part of  food security strategies highlights this support. For instance, in recent years, several countries have launched national aquaculture development plans, which include funding for research and development (R&D) and technological resources aimed at improving sustainability.

Such policies are expected to enhance production capabilities, allowing the market to grow alongside the rising demand for aquaculture products.

Aquaculture Market Segment Insights

Aquaculture Market Environment Insights  

The Environment segment of the  Aquaculture Market demonstrates significant growth potential, with the entire market expected to achieve a valuation of 160.9 USD Billion by 2024, advancing to 314.72 USD Billion by 2035. Within this segment, the Freshwater category holds a majority share, valued at 80.0 USD Billion in 2024 and projected to grow remarkably to 165.0 USD Billion by 2035. Freshwater aquaculture plays a crucial role in meeting  protein demands, particularly as freshwater sources remain abundant compared to marine alternatives.

Additionally, the Marine Water segment is valued at 55.0 USD Billion in 2024, with aspirations of reaching 115.0 USD Billion by 2035, indicating its relevance in supplying seafood and other marine products. The Marine Water sub-category also supports biodiversity and the sustainability of aquatic ecosystems, making it an essential avenue for aquaculture development. In contrast, the Brackish Water segment holds a smaller yet notable position, valued at 25.9 USD Billion in 2024 and expected to grow to 34.72 USD Billion by 2035. This segment is important as it allows for the cultivation of species that thrive in mixed salinity environments, such as shrimp and certain fish species, thus providing diversification in aquatic farming.

Factors contributing to market growth include the rising  consumption of seafood and the increasing demand for sustainable aquaculture practices. However, challenges such as regulatory compliance and environmental impacts, along with opportunities in technological advancements and eco-friendly farming practices, will shape the industry's future. Overall, the segmentation of the  Aquaculture Market highlights the environmental considerations that are critical to its sustainability and efficiency. The projections reflect not only the potential for expansion within each category but also the interconnectedness of these segments in addressing  food security.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Aquaculture Market Type Insights  

The  Aquaculture Market is witnessing robust growth driven by the increasing demand for seafood and sustainable food sources. In 2024, the market is expected to be valued at 160.9 USD Billion, reflecting a strong trajectory of development within various segments, prominently including Fishes, Crustaceans, Mollusca, and Others. Fishes form the bulk of the market due to their nutritional benefits and popularity among consumers ly. Crustaceans are gaining traction for their high market value and are often considered luxury seafood items, while Mollusca plays a crucial role in diversifying aquaculture products, appealing to consumers seeking variety.

The Others segment complements the main categories, encompassing various aquaculture species that cater to niche markets. This segmentation highlights the versatile nature of the  Aquaculture Market, with each type contributing uniquely to the industry's evolution. Overall, the  Aquaculture Market statistics showcase a robust growth pattern fueled by increasing consumer awareness regarding health benefits, sustainability trends, and the growing  population demanding diverse seafood options.

Aquaculture Market Regional Insights  

The  Aquaculture Market is marked by robust growth in various regions, particularly highlighted by its overall valuation, which reached 160.9 USD Billion in 2024. The Asia Pacific region is a significant contributor, holding a value of 70.0 USD Billion in 2024, due to its extensive coastline and favorable conditions for aquaculture practices, making it the dominant region in the market. Europe follows closely with a valuation of 40.0 USD Billion, underscoring its emphasis on sustainable aquaculture and strict regulatory standards, which aid in market stability and growth.

North America, valued at 25.0 USD Billion, also displays a strong market presence, focusing on advanced technologies in aquaculture to enhance production efficiency. In South America, the market stands at 15.0 USD Billion, benefiting from increasing seafood consumption and the expansion of aquaculture farms. The Middle East and Africa, although smaller at 10.0 USD Billion, show potential for growth with rising investments in aquaculture development to meet food security challenges. This regional segmentation emphasizes the diverse landscape of the  Aquaculture Market, with each region contributing uniquely to the industry's overall progression, driven by local demands and investments.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Aquaculture Market Key Players and Competitive Insights

The  Aquaculture Market has witnessed significant growth due to increasing demand for seafood, rising health consciousness among consumers, and advancements in aquaculture technology. The competitive landscape of this market is characterized by numerous players, ranging from small-scale producers to large multinational corporations. Companies are continuously innovating to enhance production efficiency, improve sustainability practices, and meet the evolving preferences of consumers. The market is not only influenced by fish farming techniques but also by factors such as regulatory frameworks, environmental sustainability, and international trade dynamics. Key players are focusing on establishing strong distribution networks, forming strategic partnerships, and investing in research and development to gain a competitive edge.

AquaBounty Technologies stands out in the  Aquaculture Market due to its innovative approaches, primarily centered around biotechnology. This company has revolutionized aquaculture with its genetically engineered fish, designed to grow faster and utilize feed more efficiently compared to traditional varieties. AquaBounty's strong market presence is bolstered by its commitment to sustainability, allowing it to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers and investors alike. The company is recognized for its pioneering role in the advancement of aquaculture technologies that enhance productivity while minimizing ecological impact. Its strategic focus on research and development has enabled AquaBounty Technologies to position itself as a leader in the genetic modification segment, ensuring it remains competitive against traditional aquaculture practice as it navigates through regulatory landscapes and market demands.

Dainichi Corporation is another significant player within the  Aquaculture Market, recognized for its comprehensive portfolio of products and services focused on aquatic farming solutions. The company specializes in the production of high-quality fish feeds, which are pivotal for the growth and health of farmed fish. Dainichi's strengths lie in its advanced R&D capabilities that enable it to develop nutritional products tailored to different species' specific needs. With a robust  distribution network, Dainichi has established a solid market presence, effectively reaching aquaculture farms across various regions. The company's emphasis on sustainability and high product quality has fostered strong relationships with clients, reinforcing its reputation. In recent years, Dainichi Corporation has also engaged in strategic mergers and acquisitions to enhance its capabilities and expand its market reach, allowing it to maintain competitiveness in the dynamic  aquaculture environment.

Key Companies in the Aquaculture Market Include

• AquaBounty Technologies


• Dainichi Corporation


• Salmar


• Pelagia AS


• Thai Union Group


• Cermaq


• Mowi


• LeanFish


• StoltNielsen


• Grieg Seafood


• Brunswick Corporation


• Skretting


• Aquaculture North America


• Nippon Suisan Kaisha


• Cooke Aquaculture

Aquaculture Market Industry Developments

Recent developments in the  Aquaculture Market have shown significant growth driven by rising seafood consumption and advancements in aquaculture technology. Notable companies such as AquaBounty Technologies and Mowi are leading in innovative practices and genetic improvements, while major players like Thai Union Group and Grieg Seafood are expanding their sustainable sourcing initiatives. In December 2022, Cooke Aquaculture announced the acquisition of a significant stake in a Canadian fish farming company, which is expected to enhance its production capacity. Meanwhile, Salmar has reported an increase in its operational efficiency, contributing to a stronger position in the market.

In 2021, lean methodologies in fish farming, adopted by companies like LeanFish, have set new industry standards, optimizing production processes. The valuation of Aquaculture North America also saw an uptick due to increasing demand for eco-friendly fish products. Furthermore, government regulations ly are shifting towards more sustainable practices, prompting all major companies, including Nippon Suisan Kaisha and Skretting, to adapt their operations for compliance. The cumulative effects of these trends signal a robust future for  aquaculture, as innovation melds with sustainability efforts across the financial landscape.

Aquaculture Market Segmentation Insights

Aquaculture Market Environment Outlook

• Freshwater


• Marine Water


• Brackish Water

Aquaculture Market Type Outlook

• Fishes


• Crustaceans


• Mollusca


• Others

Aquaculture Market Regional Outlook

• North America


• Europe


• South America


• Asia Pacific


• Middle East and Africa

Report Attribute/Metric	Details
Market Size 2023	157.95(USD Billion)
Market Size 2024	160.9(USD Billion)
Market Size 2035	314.72(USD Billion)
Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)	6.29% (2025 - 2035)
Report Coverage	Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
Base Year	2024
Market Forecast Period	2025 - 2035
Historical Data	2019 - 2024
Market Forecast Units	USD Billion
Key Companies Profiled	AquaBounty Technologies, Dainichi Corporation, Salmar, Pelagia AS, Thai Union Group, Cermaq, Mowi, LeanFish, StoltNielsen, Grieg Seafood, Brunswick Corporation, Skretting, Aquaculture North America, Nippon Suisan Kaisha, Cooke Aquaculture
Segments Covered	Environment, Type, Regional
Key Market Opportunities	Sustainable fish farming practices, Growing demand for seafood, Aquaculture technology innovations, Expansion of aquafeed industry, Increasing investment in aquaculture research
Key Market Dynamics	sustainable fishing practices, increasing seafood demand, technological advancements, environmental regulations, supply chain efficiencies
Countries Covered	North America, Europe, APAC, South America, MEA