China Frozen Fish and Sea Food Market Overview, 2029

China boasts one of the world's largest and most diverse fish and seafood markets, driven by a combination of its vast coastline, rich aquatic resources, and cultural preferences for seafood consumption. The market is a bustling ecosystem, comprising a myriad of stakeholders ranging from fishermen, aquaculture farmers, wholesalers, and retailers, all the way to consumers. Coastal provinces such as Guangdong, Shandong, and Zhejiang, as well as major cities like Shanghai and Beijing, serve as focal points for seafood trading. China's fish and seafood market is characterized by a wide variety of species, including freshwater fish, saltwater fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and seaweed. Popular freshwater species include carp, tilapia, and catfish, while saltwater favorites encompass various types of finfish such as pomfret, grouper, and sea bass, as well as shellfish like shrimp, crab, and scallops. Additionally, China's extensive aquaculture industry plays a significant role in meeting domestic demand and supplying export markets, with shrimp, tilapia, and shellfish being among the top farmed species. The market dynamics are influenced by factors such as seasonality, environmental regulations, international trade, and consumer preferences. Chinese consumers prioritize freshness and quality, often purchasing live seafood from wet markets or specialized seafood markets. Moreover, with the rise of e-commerce platforms and seafood restaurants, online ordering and delivery services have become increasingly popular channels for purchasing seafood. However, the industry also faces challenges such as overfishing, environmental degradation, food safety concerns, and regulatory issues. Efforts are underway to address these challenges through sustainable fishing practices, aquaculture innovation, and stricter food safety regulations.

According to the research report "China Frozen Fish & Sea Food Market Overview, 2029," published by Bonafide Research, the China Frozen Fish & Sea Food market was valued at more than USD 6.30 Billion in 2023. China's fish and seafood industry is a multifaceted landscape marked by intriguing facts and evolving demands. One notable aspect is China's position as the world's largest producer, consumer, and exporter of seafood. Its vast coastline and extensive network of rivers and lakes contribute to an abundant supply of fish and seafood. Interestingly, China's aquaculture industry accounts for a significant portion of global aquaculture production, with freshwater species like carp and tilapia being major contributors. Additionally, China's seafood exports span a wide range of products, from frozen fish fillets to processed seafood items, supplying markets around the globe. However, the industry also faces challenges related to sustainability, environmental degradation, and food safety. Overfishing and habitat destruction threaten wild fish stocks, prompting initiatives to promote responsible fishing practices and marine conservation efforts. Furthermore, food safety concerns, such as contamination with pollutants or antibiotics, have led to heightened scrutiny and stricter regulations within the industry. As a result, there is a growing emphasis on traceability, quality control, and transparency throughout the seafood supply chain to ensure consumer confidence and safety. Demand for fish and seafood in China is driven by various factors, including cultural traditions, dietary preferences, and rising affluence. Seafood holds a revered status in Chinese cuisine, often served during festive occasions and banquets as a symbol of prosperity and abundance. With the growing middle class and urbanization, there has been an increasing appetite for premium and imported seafood products, reflecting changing consumer tastes and lifestyles. Moreover, health-conscious consumers are drawn to the nutritional benefits of fish and seafood, which are rich sources of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals.
The fish and seafood market industry comprises a diverse range of product types, each catering to specific consumer preferences and culinary needs. Fish is the most broadly consumed category, encompassing a variety of species such as salmon, tuna, cod, and tilapia, which are valued for their nutritional benefits and versatility in cooking. Shrimp is another highly popular seafood product, known for its sweet flavor and adaptability in numerous dishes, from appetizers to main courses. It is widely available in different forms, including fresh, frozen, peeled, and unpeeled. Other seafood products encompass a broad spectrum of marine life, including mollusks (like clams, mussels, oysters, and scallops), crustaceans (like crabs and lobsters), and cephalopods (like squid and octopus). These products are often sought after for their unique textures and flavors, which add variety to culinary offerings. Additionally, there are specialty products like caviar, sea urchin, and seaweed, which cater to gourmet markets and are often considered delicacies. Each of these product types contributes to the richness of the seafood industry, meeting diverse consumer demands and supporting a wide array of culinary traditions across the globe.

Canned seafood is a staple in many households due to its convenience and long shelf life. The canning process involves cooking seafood at high temperatures and sealing it in airtight containers, which prevents spoilage without the need for refrigeration. Popular canned products include tuna, sardines, mackerel, and anchovies. Frozen seafood undergoes rapid freezing soon after harvest to lock in freshness, texture, and nutrients. This method is highly effective in preserving the quality of seafood for extended periods, often up to several months. Frozen products range from whole fish and fillets to shrimp and other shellfish. The versatility of frozen seafood allows consumers to enjoy a wide variety of species year-round, regardless of seasonal availability. Chilled seafood refers to fresh products that are stored at low, non-freezing temperatures, usually just above 0°C (32°F). This category includes fresh fillets, whole fish, shellfish, and sushi-grade seafood. Chilled seafood maintains its natural texture and flavor but has a shorter shelf life compared to canned or frozen options. It requires careful handling and prompt consumption to ensure safety and quality, making it a favorite for consumers seeking the freshest possible taste. Processed seafood encompasses a broad range of products that have undergone additional preparation methods to enhance flavor, shelf life, or convenience. This category includes smoked, cured, marinated, and breaded items. Examples include smoked salmon, surimi (imitation crab), fish sticks, and ready-to-eat seafood meals. Processing can add value by creating new flavors and textures, making seafood more accessible and appealing to different markets.

The sales channels in the fish and seafood market industry encompass various methods through which products reach consumers, each catering to different segments and preferences. Major fish auctions, often held at coastal markets, are pivotal in setting market prices and ensuring fresh seafood reaches various regions. Traditional sales channels include wholesale markets and fish auctions, where large quantities are traded, often directly from fishermen to retailers or processors. Retail channels, such as supermarkets and specialty seafood stores, provide consumers with access to fresh, frozen, and processed seafood products. Specialty seafood stores provide high-quality, often locally-sourced products, and cater to consumers seeking specific types of seafood or higher-end products. Online sales channels have seen significant growth, driven by the convenience of home delivery and the ability to offer a wider variety of products. E-commerce platforms and dedicated seafood delivery services provide consumers with fresh and frozen options, often with detailed information on sourcing and sustainability. Additionally, the foodservice channel, including restaurants and catering services, plays a crucial role in distributing high-quality and often premium seafood products. Direct-to-consumer sales, such as community-supported fisheries (CSFs) and farm-to-table models, are also becoming popular, offering traceability and a closer connection between consumers and producers. Many regions are significant exporters of fish and seafood, supplying international markets. Export channels are crucial for countries with large fishing and aquaculture industries, connecting them to global consumers and international foodservice markets.
Major companies in the market
Cargill Incorporation, Nomad foods, Hormel food, Rich Product Corporation, Al Kabeer group

Considered for the report:
• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecasted year: 2029




Aspects covered in this report
• Frozen Fish & seafood Products with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various divers and challenges
• Ongoing trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
By Product
• Fish
• Shrimp
• Others
By Form
• Canned
• Chilled
• Frozen
• Processed

By Distribution Channel
• Convenience Stores
• Online
• Others

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started, verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.
Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to Fish & Seafood products industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.