Global Crustaceans Market Overview, 2029

The global crustaceans market is currently undergoing significant growth, driven by several macroeconomic and social trends. The increasing consumer shift towards healthier, protein-rich diets is a key driver behind the surge in demand for crustaceans like shrimp, crabs, lobsters, and other shellfish. These crustaceans are not only regarded as culinary delicacies but also as essential sources of high-quality protein and a variety of critical nutrients. For instance, crustaceans such as shrimp and crabs are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health, and they also provide a significant amount of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, iodine, and zinc. The rising awareness of these health benefits, coupled with the global focus on nutrition and wellness, has led more consumers to incorporate crustaceans into their regular diets. Furthermore, urbanization and increasing disposable incomes, particularly in emerging economies, have played a substantial role in expanding the market for crustaceans. As urbanization accelerates, especially in regions such as Asia and Africa, people are adopting more varied diets, with seafood becoming a more regular part of daily meals. Crustaceans, with their premium appeal, are viewed as luxury foods in many markets, thus catering to an affluent, health-conscious population. As the middle class expands globally, particularly in emerging markets, the demand for premium seafood like crustaceans continues to rise. Additionally, the growing consumer preference for sustainable and ethically sourced food products has also driven the demand for eco-friendly and traceable crustacean sourcing, further boosting the market's growth. Alongside these trends, the increasing availability of crustacean products in various forms—ranging from fresh to frozen, canned, and cooked products—has contributed to their widespread appeal. This versatility makes crustaceans an attractive option for a diverse range of culinary applications, further reinforcing their growing demand in both traditional and modern food cultures.

According to the research report, “Global Crustaceans Market Outlook, 2029” published by Bonafide Research, the Global Crustaceans market is anticipated to grow at more than 5.53% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. Several factors are contributing to this growth, including the increasing popularity of crustaceans due to their nutritional benefits, growing consumer awareness of sustainable sourcing practices, and the ongoing trend of protein diversification in diets. Furthermore, technological advancements in aquaculture and improved farming practices are helping ensure a steady supply of crustaceans to meet the growing demand. The Asia-Pacific region plays a crucial role in driving this market expansion, accounting for the largest share of the global crustaceans market. Countries such as China, India, and Indonesia are major consumers and producers of crustaceans, benefiting from abundant marine resources and well-established fishing and aquaculture practices. As a result, Asia-Pacific’s dominance in the crustaceans market is expected to continue as demand increases and export activities expand. On the other hand, regions like North America and Europe are experiencing a growing demand for premium and organic crustacean products, driven by rising consumer awareness of health and sustainability. The market in these regions is witnessing a shift toward higher-end products, such as organic shrimp and sustainably farmed lobster, which cater to the more affluent and environmentally conscious consumer segments. As these regions continue to prioritize sustainability, the demand for traceable and responsibly sourced crustaceans is anticipated to grow, further driving the market's expansion. The combination of these regional dynamics—Asia-Pacific's high consumption and strong export markets, alongside the increasing demand for sustainable products in North America and Europe—positions the global crustaceans market for continued growth and diversification in the coming years.

Market Dynamics

Market Drivers

Rising Consumer Demand for High-Quality Protein Sources: Crustaceans are highly valued for their rich taste and nutritional benefits, making them a preferred choice for health-conscious consumers. The increasing awareness of their health benefits, such as improved heart health and cognitive function, has contributed to their growing popularity. Additionally, advancements in aquaculture have led to the availability of high-quality, sustainably farmed crustaceans, further meeting consumer demand.
Growth in Food Service and Retail Sectors: The proliferation of restaurants, seafood chains, and gourmet dining establishments has led to an increased demand for premium crustacean products. Retail channels, including supermarkets and specialty seafood stores, have also expanded their offerings, providing consumers with a wide variety of fresh, frozen, and processed crustaceans. This growth is complemented by innovative packaging solutions that ensure freshness and convenience.

Make this report your own

Have queries/questions regarding a report

Take advantage of intelligence tailored to your business objective

Ask an Expert

Manmayi Raval

Research Consultant

Market Challenges

Environmental Concerns and Overfishing: The crustacean industry faces significant challenges related to overfishing and the environmental impact of certain fishing practices. These issues have prompted regulatory bodies to impose strict fishing quotas and sustainability guidelines, which can limit supply and increase production costs.
Price Volatility of Raw Materials: Crustacean prices are highly susceptible to fluctuations due to seasonal availability, environmental factors, and geopolitical conditions. This volatility can impact profit margins and disrupt supply chains, posing challenges for manufacturers and distributors.

Market Trends

Don’t pay for what you don’t need. Save 30%

Customise your report by selecting specific countries or regions

Specify Scope Now

Increasing Popularity of Organic and Sustainable Products: Consumers are increasingly gravitating towards organic and sustainably sourced crustaceans, reflecting a growing awareness of environmental and ethical considerations. Certifications such as MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) and ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) are becoming key purchasing criteria, driving demand for responsibly harvested products.
Technological Advancements in Processing and Packaging: Innovations in processing and packaging technologies are enhancing the quality and shelf life of crustacean products. Vacuum-sealed packaging, flash freezing, and portion-controlled packs are gaining traction, providing consumers with convenient and high-quality options.

Segmentation Analysis

Shrimp has firmly established itself as the dominant product in the crustaceans market, commanding the largest share due to its unparalleled versatility, affordability, and widespread appeal.

Shrimp is consumed globally, making it one of the most popular seafood items across a variety of cuisines and cultures. Its adaptability in culinary applications—from simple grilled shrimp to complex shrimp dishes in international cuisines—has contributed to its widespread consumption. The global popularity of shrimp can be attributed to its mild flavor, ease of preparation, and ability to absorb various seasonings, making it suitable for different types of dishes. Shrimp can be found in diverse forms, including fresh, frozen, cooked, peeled, and even marinated, catering to various consumer preferences and culinary needs. Its availability in different forms increases its versatility, allowing it to be used in home cooking, restaurants, and foodservice establishments. One of the key drivers of shrimp's dominance in the market is the rise in shrimp farming, especially in countries like India, Thailand, and Vietnam, which are among the largest producers of farmed shrimp. The growth of shrimp farming has made the product more accessible and affordable, ensuring a steady supply to meet the growing global demand. Compared to other crustaceans like lobster and crabs, shrimp is often more affordable, making it a popular choice for both household consumers and foodservice providers. Additionally, shrimp farming has seen technological advancements that have improved the efficiency and sustainability of production, further boosting the supply of shrimp to meet global consumption demands. With innovations such as sustainable aquaculture practices and improved breeding techniques, the shrimp market is expected to continue thriving. Furthermore, as consumer preferences shift toward more sustainable and responsibly farmed seafood, shrimp farmers are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices, enhancing the appeal of shrimp to environmentally conscious buyers. This combination of affordability, versatility, and sustainability ensures that shrimp will continue to dominate the crustaceans market in the foreseeable future.

Supermarkets and hypermarkets continue to dominate the distribution channel for crustaceans, offering consumers an extensive variety of products in multiple forms—fresh, frozen, canned, and cooked.

These large-scale retail outlets play a crucial role in meeting consumer demand by providing easy access to crustacean products and offering a one-stop shopping experience for customers. Supermarkets often feature dedicated seafood sections that showcase a wide range of crustacean products, allowing customers to choose from different types of crustaceans, including shrimp, crabs, lobsters, and mussels, in various price ranges. These sections often include live seafood, offering consumers the option to purchase fresh, live crustaceans, adding an experiential element to the shopping process. Additionally, supermarkets and hypermarkets frequently engage in promotional activities such as discounts, product sampling, and special offers to attract consumers and encourage trial purchases. The strategic placement of seafood sections and the availability of various packaging options further strengthen supermarkets’ position as the dominant distribution channel for crustaceans. With the rise of e-commerce and digital shopping, supermarkets have also capitalized on online sales platforms, offering home delivery services and making it easier for consumers to purchase their preferred crustacean products from the comfort of their homes. This omnichannel approach, which combines both physical and online retail, has expanded the market reach of supermarkets and hypermarkets, allowing them to cater to a broader range of consumer preferences. The ability to purchase crustaceans online and have them delivered directly to homes has enhanced the convenience factor for busy consumers and has contributed to increased sales of seafood products. This shift toward digital retail has allowed supermarkets and hypermarkets to adapt to changing consumer shopping behaviors while maintaining their dominance in the distribution of crustaceans. As consumer preferences continue to evolve toward convenience and accessibility, supermarkets and hypermarkets will likely remain the primary distribution channels for crustaceans, with their combination of extensive product offerings, in-store experience, and online presence.

Residential applications drive the market, propelled by demand for ready-to-cook crustacean products.

The residential segment is the largest application area for crustaceans, driven by increasing consumer demand for ready-to-cook and easy-to-prepare seafood productsConsumers are increasingly looking for options that allow them to enjoy the taste and nutritional benefits of seafood without the time-consuming process of cleaning, peeling, or cooking the crustaceans from scratch. Ready-to-cook products, such as pre-seasoned or marinated shrimp, lobster tails, and crab legs, make it easy for consumers to prepare restaurant-quality meals at home with minimal effort. The rise of cooking shows, food influencers, and social media content showcasing seafood-based recipes has also sparked interest in crustaceans, with many home cooks eager to recreate these dishes in their own kitchens. The growing popularity of home cooking, fueled by the desire to experiment with new cuisines and the increased focus on healthier meal options, has driven demand for convenient seafood products that fit into this trend. Additionally, innovations such as easy-peel packaging and portioned servings of crustaceans have further enhanced convenience, making it easier for consumers to enjoy seafood without dealing with complicated preparation. As more consumers embrace the idea of preparing fresh and flavorful meals at home, the demand for pre-packaged crustaceans is expected to continue growing. Furthermore, the influence of health-conscious eating, which emphasizes the consumption of lean protein sources like seafood, has reinforced the appeal of crustaceans as a dietary choice. With an increasing number of consumers opting for healthier, sustainable, and convenient food options, the residential segment will remain a driving force in the global crustaceans market, ensuring continued growth and innovation in this space.


Regional Analysis

The Asia-Pacific region remains the dominant force in the global crustaceans market, driven by high consumption levels, extensive aquaculture activities, and strong export markets.

Countries in the region, particularly China, India, and Indonesia, are major producers and consumers of crustaceans. The region benefits from an abundance of natural resources, including vast coastal areas and access to rich marine ecosystems, making it an ideal location for crustacean farming and fishing. The expansion of aquaculture in Asia-Pacific has enabled these countries to meet the growing global demand for crustaceans, ensuring a steady supply of products such as shrimp, lobster, and crabs to both domestic and international markets. Additionally, these nations benefit from cost-effective production methods, making crustacean products more affordable and competitive on the global market. Asia-Pacific's dominance is also supported by its role as a major exporter of crustaceans to regions such as North America and Europe, where demand for premium and sustainably sourced seafood is rising. While Asia-Pacific leads in both production and consumption, North America and Europe are experiencing increasing demand for high-quality and sustainable crustacean products, driven by growing consumer awareness about food traceability, sustainability, and health benefits. The growing preference for organic and responsibly farmed crustaceans in these regions is expected to boost the market for premium products, with consumers willing to pay a premium for ethically sourced seafood. As the market for sustainable and organic products expands, countries in the Asia-Pacific region are adopting more eco-friendly farming practices to meet this demand. These changes are helping to support continued growth in the global crustaceans market, with the Asia-Pacific region remaining a key player in both production and export activities. As the global appetite for crustaceans continues to grow, Asia-Pacific’s strategic position as a major producer and exporter will ensure its continued dominance in the market.


Key Developments
• In February 2024, Clearwater Seafoods announced the expansion of its product line to include sustainably sourced lobster and crab products.
• In April 2024, Thai Union Group launched a new range of frozen shrimp products designed for health-conscious consumers.
• In July 2024, Pacific Seafood invested in state-of-the-art processing facilities to enhance product quality and meet growing market demand.

Considered in this report
* Historic year: 2018
* Base year: 2023
* Estimated year: 2024
* Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report
* Crustaceans Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
* Country-wise Crustaceans Market analysis
* Various drivers and challenges
* On-going trends and developments
* Top profiled companies
* Strategic recommendation

By Product Type:
• Shrimp
• Crab
• Lobster
• Others


By Application:
• Residential
• Commercial
• Industrial


By Distribution Channel:
• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Specialty Stores
• Online Platforms
• Direct Sales


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, analysing 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 Crustaceans 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.