India Frozen Fish and Sea Food Market Overview, 2029

The fish and seafood market in India is a vibrant and dynamic sector that reflects the country's rich coastal resources and diverse culinary traditions. With a coastline spanning over 7,500 kilometers along the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, India boasts a wide variety of marine life, making it one of the world's leading producers and consumers of fish and seafood. The market is characterized by a mix of traditional, small-scale fishing operations and modern, industrialized fishing fleets, catering to both domestic and international demand. India's fish and seafood market is primarily driven by domestic consumption, with fish being a staple food in many coastal regions and a significant source of protein for millions of people. Traditional fish markets, bustling with activity from the early hours of the morning, are a common sight in coastal towns and cities across the country. Here, fishermen offload their catches directly from small boats or fishing vessels, and buyers can choose from a wide array of fresh seafood, including pomfret, mackerel, sardines, shrimp, crab, and lobster. In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards modernization and mechanization in India's fishing industry, with the introduction of larger trawlers, processing plants, and cold storage facilities. This has enabled the country to expand its reach in international markets, exporting a variety of fish and seafood products to countries around the world. Additionally, the rise of online retail platforms has made it easier for consumers to access a wider range of seafood products, further driving demand and innovation in the market. However, the fish and seafood market in India also faces challenges, including overfishing, habitat degradation, and pollution, which threaten the sustainability of marine resources and the livelihoods of fishing communities. Efforts are underway to promote sustainable fishing practices, improve infrastructure and technology, and strengthen regulations to ensure the long-term viability of the industry.

According to the research report "India Frozen Fish & Sea Food Market Overview, 2029," published by Bonafide Research, the India Frozen Fish & Sea Food market is anticipated to grow at more than 28.97% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. India's expansive coastline and varied aquatic ecosystems support an astonishing diversity of fish and seafood species. From the tropical waters of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to the cooler currents along the western and eastern coasts, India is home to over 2,000 different varieties of fish, making it a paradise for seafood lovers. India ranks among the top fish-producing countries globally. Its annual fish production exceeds 13 million metric tons, with marine fisheries contributing significantly to this total. This production not only caters to domestic consumption but also fuels a booming export market. India is a major player in the global seafood trade, exporting a wide range of products to countries around the world. Frozen shrimp, cuttlefish, squid, and crab are among the most sought-after exports, with destinations including the United States, European Union, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. The export industry generates substantial revenue and employment opportunities, particularly in coastal regions. While India is a significant exporter of seafood, domestic demand remains robust. Fish is a staple food in many Indian households, especially in coastal areas where it forms a crucial part of the diet. With a burgeoning middle class and increasing health consciousness, there's a growing appetite for seafood products across the country, driving both consumption and production. The Indian seafood industry is embracing innovation and technology to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving market. From aquaculture techniques and sustainable fishing practices to modern processing and packaging facilities, there's a concerted effort to improve efficiency, quality, and safety standards across the supply chain. Despite its successes, the Indian fish and seafood industry faces several challenges. Overfishing, habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change threaten the long-term sustainability of marine resources. Efforts are underway to promote responsible fishing practices, conserve critical habitats, and ensure the livelihoods of fishing communities.

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.