Surimi Market Forecasts to 2030 – Global Analysis By Species (Alaskan Pollock, Atlantic Cod and Black Bass), Sales Channel (Convenience Stores, Discount Stores, Online Retail and Wholesale Stores), Application and By Geography
According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Surimi Market is accounted for $4.43 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $7.15 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 8.3% during the forecast period. Surimi is a versatile seafood product made from white fish, typically Alaskan pollock, that has been deboned, minced, and washed to remove fat and unwanted proteins. The resulting fish paste is then flavored, seasoned, and often combined with other ingredients to mimic the texture and taste of higher-value seafood like crab or lobster. Surimi is commonly used in a variety of processed foods, such as imitation crab sticks (kani), seafood salads, and sushi. This product is valued for its neutral flavor, which easily adapts to different seasonings, and its ability to be shaped into various forms.
According to an article published by the Food and Aquaculture Organization, approximately 214 million tons of aquaculture and fisheries were produced in 2020 and this number is further expected to increase by 15% by the year 2030.
Market Dynamics:
Driver:
Rising seafood consumption
Rising seafood consumption is significantly enhancing the surimi industry, which capitalizes on the growing appetite for diverse, sustainable seafood products. Surimi, a versatile fish paste made primarily from white fish like pollock, is valued for its ability to mimic the texture and taste of various seafood items, making it a popular ingredient in dishes like imitation crab and fish sticks. As global seafood consumption increases, driven by health-conscious trends and the desire for convenient, protein-rich options, surimi's appeal expands. This boost in demand encourages innovation and quality improvements in surimi production, leading to more refined and diverse product offerings.
Restraint:
Fluctuations in fish prices
Fluctuations in fish prices are significantly impacting the Surimi industry, which relies on a consistent supply of fish to produce its products. Surimi, a processed seafood product made from fish, typically uses cheaper fish varieties like pollock or hake. When fish prices are unstable, it creates challenges in maintaining production costs and pricing strategies. For instance, if fish prices spike due to supply shortages or increased demand, the cost of raw materials for Surimi production rises, potentially leading to higher prices for consumers. Conversely, if fish prices fall, it may indicate an oversupply or lower demand, affecting the profitability of Surimi producers who might be forced to lower their prices to stay competitive.
Opportunity:
Increased focus on sustainable fishing practices
Increased focus on sustainable fishing practices is substantially enhancing the production of surimi, a versatile seafood product made from finely minced fish. By adopting responsible fishing methods, such as limiting catch sizes, avoiding overexploited species, and minimizing bycatch, the fishing industry helps ensure that fish populations remain healthy and ecosystems are preserved. This commitment to sustainability not only supports environmental balance but also improves the quality and reputation of surimi.
Threat:
Health and safety concerns
Surimi, a popular seafood product made from minced fish, faces significant health and safety concerns that impact its production and consumption. One major issue is the potential for contamination with harmful pathogens such as bacteria or parasites during processing, which can lead to foodborne illnesses if not properly managed. Surimi often contains various additives and preservatives, some of which may raise health concerns if consumed in large amounts over time. Allergic reactions to ingredients, particularly fish and shellfish, are another risk factor. The need for stringent hygiene practices and regular quality control is crucial to mitigate these risks.
Covid-19 Impact:
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted the surimi industry, a key player in the global seafood market. As the virus spread, it caused a cascade of challenges, including factory closures, supply chain interruptions, and labor shortages. Surimi production, reliant on both imported fish and global distribution networks, faced delays due to reduced availability of raw materials and logistical bottlenecks. The pandemic's impact on consumer behavior also shifted demand patterns, with reduced restaurant operations and changes in purchasing habits leading to decreased sales. Heightened health and safety regulations increased operational costs and further complicated production processes.
The Convenience Stores segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period
Convenience Stores segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period. Convenience stores are increasingly focusing on enhancing their surimi offerings to cater to evolving consumer preferences for both convenience and quality. Surimi, a versatile and cost-effective seafood product made from processed fish, is being upgraded with better flavor profiles, improved texture, and higher nutritional value to meet the growing demand for premium and health-conscious options. This enhancement involves using higher-quality fish, incorporating innovative processing techniques, and adding natural flavorings to create a more satisfying and appetizing product.
The Animal Feed segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period
Animal Feed segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The enhancement of surimi in the animal feed segment represents a significant advancement in optimizing feed quality and nutritional value. Surimi, a processed seafood product made from fish meat, is increasingly being incorporated into animal feed due to its high protein content and beneficial amino acid profile. By refining surimi through advanced processing techniques, its digestibility and nutrient availability can be improved, making it a more effective feed ingredient for livestock and aquaculture. This enhancement not only boosts the nutritional value of the feed but also supports better growth rates and overall health in animals.
Region with largest share:
North America region commanded the largest share of the market throughout the extrapolated period. International trade agreements facilitate easier access to international markets, allowing North American surimi producers to export their products more efficiently. As global demand for surimi—an increasingly popular seafood product made from fish paste—rises, North American companies are capitalizing on this growth by enhancing their production capabilities and diversifying their offerings. Trade agreements often reduce tariffs and streamline regulatory processes, making North American surimi more competitive on the world stage.
Region with highest CAGR:
Europe region is poised to witness substantial growth over the projection period by ensuring high standards of quality, safety, and sustainability. Stringent regulations on product labeling, ingredient transparency, and hygienic processing practices help build consumer trust and safeguard public health across the region. European policies also promote sustainable fishing practices, which are essential for the long-term viability of surimi production. By adhering to these regulations, surimi producers can access premium markets and differentiate their products based on quality and environmental responsibility throughout the region.
Key players in the market
Some of the key players in Surimi market include American Seafoods Company LLC, Apitoon Group, Cargill, Inc, Glacier Fish Company, Maruha Nichiro Corporation, Nippon Suisan Kaisha, Ltd, Ocean Beauty Seafoods, Pacific Seafood Group, Sajo Industries Co., Ltd and Starfish Co., Ltd.
Key Developments:
In December 2021, Shining Ocean completed the acquisition of the True World Group by the Aquamar. True World Foods, a company owned by the TWG that distributes fish to food-service venues, has locations in the US, Canada, the UK, & Spain.
In September 2020, the Japanese seafood company, Maruha Nichiro, introduced a new line of surimi-based products called Crab Tsumami. These are made with a combination of real crab meat and surimi paste.
Species Covered:
• Alaskan Pollock
• Atlantic Cod
• Black Bass
Sales Channels Covered:
• Convenience Stores
• Discount Stores
• Online Retail
• Wholesale Stores
Applications Covered:
• Animal Feed
• Food Industry
• Other Applications
Regions Covered:
• North America
US
Canada
Mexico
• Europe
Germany
UK
Italy
France
Spain
Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
Japan
China
India
Australia
New Zealand
South Korea
Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
Argentina
Brazil
Chile
Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE
Qatar
South Africa
Rest of Middle East & Africa
What our report offers:
- Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
- Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
- Covers Market data for the years 2022, 2023, 2024, 2026, and 2030
- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
- Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
- Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
- Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
- Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements