Tuna Fish Market Report Size and Share Analysis - Growth Trends and Forecast Report 2025-2033

The Tuna Fish market is expected to reach US$ 55.47 billion by 2033 from US$ 42.18 billion in 2024, with a CAGR of 3.09% from 2025 to 2033. One of the main reasons driving market expansion is the growing need for diets high in protein and health, with consumers favoring seafood options. Due to its wealth of marine resources and high demand for exports, Indonesia currently produces more than any other region, but Japan has a high domestic consumption rate driven by the cultural significance of tuna and its widespread use in traditional dishes like sushi and sashimi.

Tuna Fish Industry Overview

The commercial capture, processing, and distribution of several species of tuna, such as yellowfin, skipjack, and bluefin tuna, constitute the main focus of the tuna fish industry, a significant worldwide industry. Tuna is one of the most popular fish in the world and is highly sought after because of its many culinary uses, particularly in sushi, sashimi, and tinned versions. The expanding worldwide population, rising consumer preferences for low-fat, high-protein foods, and the growing acceptance of seafood diets are the main drivers of this business. With the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans being the main production zones, tuna fishing - both in the wild and through aquaculture - is an essential part of the seafood business.

The tuna fish business still confronts obstacles like overfishing, sustainability issues, and environmental concerns despite its expansion. To preserve tuna supplies and lessen the effect on marine ecosystems, international restrictions are being implemented, including quotas and sustainable fishing methods. Additionally, demand for sustainably sourced tuna is being driven by consumer awareness of ethical and environmentally friendly seafood. More sustainable methods are being adopted by the industry as a result of the growing emphasis on certification, traceability, and ethical fishing methods. The market is growing as a result of developments in packaging and processing technology, as well as innovations in tuna farming. The tuna industry is well-positioned to keep expanding in the global seafood market with continued efforts to strike a balance between sustainability and demand.

August 2024: Walker Seafoods Australia, a member of Tuna Australia, has teamed up with celebrity chef Neil Perry to introduce a new brand of preserved local tuna that will be available for purchase in Australian supermarkets. Sustainable Albacore tuna certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and preserved in the clear waters off Mooloolaba is available at Walker's Tuna.

Growth Drivers for the Tuna Fish Market

Expansion of tuna products with added value

Convenience-driven customer demand is driving innovation in value-added tuna products, including as marinated, precooked, and ready-to-eat varieties, which significantly contribute to the expansion of the tuna industry. With these variations, the demands of hectic lives can be readily satisfied by quick, wholesome meal options without sacrificing flavor or quality. With the availability of flavored versions including spicy, lemon pepper, and herb-infused varieties, the market may now reach a larger demographic segment among young people and foodies. Tuna is becoming more accessible for consumption while on the road thanks to packaging developments including vacuum-sealed cans and single-serve pouches that increase shelf life and convenience of usage. Tuna is now available to consumers globally in handy formats because to the growth of e-commerce platforms and retail availability.

Growing emphasis on environmentally friendly packaging

As environmental concerns in the tuna sector gain traction, there is an increasing trend for eco-friendly packaging options. According to a study, 61% of US shoppers think that sustainability is a worthwhile criterion when making a purchase. Both producers and consumers are looking for items with environmentally friendly packaging and sustainable sourcing. For example, the seafood company Thai Union Group subsidiary John West introduced its new ECOTWIST packaging for its tuna products in June 2024. This new container type is completely recyclable and made to reduce waste, according to the tuna market highlights.

Growing popularity of prepared tuna dishes

The market for tuna as a whole is driven by ready-to-eat tuna meals, which appeal to busy customers looking for wholesome, quick, and nutritious meal options that require no preparation. Tuna market data indicate that these items are well-liked by those who lead busy lives, especially in cities where time-constrained consumers are looking for quick and easy eating options. For example, Frime S.A.U., a prominent tuna producer and sales company, unveiled its new "ready-to-eat" division in June 2024. This new category is the first and only marinated tuna that is safe to eat raw and isn't smoked. Additionally, the USFDA recommends eating two to three servings of canned light tuna per week, placing it in the "Best Choices" category. Customers can also look at canned salmon, sardines, frozen fish, or fresh fish that is on sale as more reasonably priced fish options in the same category.

Challenges in the Tuna Fish Market

Overfishing and Sustainability Concerns

One major issue facing the tuna fish industry is overfishing, especially of bluefin tuna. The depletion of some tuna species is a result of the increased demand for tuna, particularly in upscale markets and sushi restaurants. This disturbs maritime ecosystems and jeopardizes the long-term viability of tuna stocks. In order to safeguard tuna populations, governments, international organizations, and conservation organizations have enacted stronger laws, fishing limits, and sustainability programs. Although these steps are crucial for conservation, they may also present difficulties for the sector, especially when it comes to striking a balance between sustainable practices and rising demand. Tuna fishing must continue to be sustainable in the future while satisfying the demands of global consumption, which calls for constant innovation, regulation, and ethical fishing methods.

Rising Consumer Demand for Sustainability

The industry is changing as a result of growing customer demand for ethically and ecologically sourced tuna. Customers are increasingly looking for products with certifications like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) or those labeled as sustainably caught as they become more conscious of overfishing and its effects on the environment. Tuna producers are being compelled by this trend toward responsible sourcing to use more environmentally friendly nets, bycatch reduction tools, and traceability systems, among other sustainable fishing techniques and technology. Although these initiatives aid in the preservation of maritime environments, the expenditures made on sustainable certifications and technology frequently result in increased manufacturing costs. Businesses are therefore under pressure to keep pricing competitive while balancing these expenses, which could put pressure on profit margins, especially for smaller market participants.

Tuna Fish Market Overview by Regions

By countries, the global Tuna Fish market is divided into United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom, Belgium, Netherlands, Turkey, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, New Zealand, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, South Africa, Saudi Arabia and UAE.

United States Tuna Fish Market

Primarily The strong demand for sushi, canned tuna, and other seafood items is driving the US tuna fish market. Due to its adaptability, the market continues to be a major consumer of tuna worldwide despite issues like overfishing and supply chain disruptions brought on by consumers' increased desire for ethically produced tuna.

In terms of both catch volume and economic value, the US tuna market is undergoing significant changes. According to NOAA Fisheries, U.S. commercial fishermen earned over USD 2.2 million in 2022 from the capture of 368 metric tons (more than 800,000 pounds) of Pacific bluefin tuna. Given that the 2-year catch limit for 2025-2026 is anticipated to rise by almost 80%, from 1,017 metric tons in 2023-2024 to 1,822 metric tons, this is a good development. Captains, crews, and distributors who have been hampered by stricter laws for ten years will benefit from this change as the U.S. fleet will be allowed to land more Pacific bluefin tuna into markets.

Spain Tuna Fish Market

Because of the large consumption of tuna, particularly in Mediterranean diets, Spain has a sizable tuna fish market. Spain is well-known for its canned tuna and fresh dishes like "tuna a la plancha," but it also has problems with overfishing and sustainability. The market also places a strong emphasis on sustainable sourcing, as demand for tuna that is ethically harvested rises.

When it comes to producing and exporting tuna fish, Spain is leading the way in an environmentally conscious and cooperative sector. According to ANFACO-CECOPESCA, Spain's canned tuna business creates 62,000 direct and indirect jobs and earns EUR 1.1 billion yearly, with 97% of those jobs located in Galicia and the Basque Country. After Thailand, Spain is the world's second-largest producer of canned tuna, accounting for 15% of global production and 70% of the EU quota. With Italy, France, Portugal, the UK, and Germany as major markets, Spain exported 95,000 tons of canned tuna in 2023, worth at EUR 400 million. With an average of 2.25 kg consumed per resident, canned tuna is likewise very popular among Spaniards.

China Tuna Fish Market

The popularity of tuna in sushi and processed foods, as well as expanding seafood consumption, are driving China's tuna fish market's rapid growth. The demand for premium, ethically produced tuna is still growing, but China, the world's biggest importer of seafood, confronts issues like overfishing and sustainability.

Due to a rise in imports and exports, the Chinese tuna industry is growing quickly. According to industry statistics, during the first seven months of 2023, China's imports of tuna surged by 193% in value and tenfold in volume when compared to the same time in 2022. The main tuna imports into China are frozen skipjack, bluefin, and yellowfin, which reflects the rising demand for high-quality tuna products. Additionally, exports showed an upward tendency, with 2022 seeing a 30.21% increase in tuna exports. The expansion can be attributed to the growing middle class and the desire for high-quality seafood.

United Arab Emirates Tuna Fish Market

The growing demand for seafood, especially in urban regions where tuna is frequently consumed in meals like sushi, sashimi, and canned goods, is driving expansion in the UAE tuna fish market. The nation is a major importer of tuna, especially from areas like the Pacific and Indian Oceans, due to its advantageous position as a commercial hub. Tuna that is ethically sourced and sustainably harvested is becoming more and more popular as people get more conscious of sustainability issues. As a result, stricter laws governing fishing methods and certification standards for tuna suppliers have been implemented. The demand for premium tuna is further increased by the UAE's robust hotel industry and rising health-conscious populace. But issues like price volatility, overfishing worries, and supply chain interruptions still exist in the industry.

Type - Market breakup by 3 viewpoints:

• Canned
• Fresh
• Frozen

Species - Market breakup by 6 viewpoints:

• Skipjack
• Albacore
• Yellowfin
• Bigeye
• Bluefin
• Others

End Use - Market breakup by 3 viewpoints:

• Retail
• Food Service
• Industrial

Country - Market breakup by 25 viewpoints:

North America

• United States
• Canada

Europe

• France
• Germany
• Italy
• Spain
• United Kingdom
• Belgium
• the Netherlands
• Turkey

Asia Pacific

• China
• Japan
• India
• Australia
• South Korea
• Thailand
• Malaysia
• Indonesia
• New Zealand

Latin America

• Brazil
• Mexico
• Argentina

Middle East & Africa

• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates

Company Analysis: Overview, Recent Development & Strategies, Product Portfolio, Financial Insights

• Century Pacific Foods Inc.
• ITOCHU Corporation
• Thai Union Group Inc.
• IBL Ltd.
• Bolton Group
• Grupo Albacore S.A.
• Dongwon Enterprises Co. Ltd

Key Questions Answered in Report

1. How big is the Tuna Fish industry?
The global Tuna Fish market size was valued at US$ 42.18 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 55.47 billion in 2033.

2. What is the Tuna Fish growth rate?
The global Tuna Fish market is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.09% from 2025 to 2033.

3. Who are the key players in Tuna Fish industry?
Some key players operating in the Tuna Fish market includes Century Pacific Foods Inc., ITOCHU Corporation, Thai Union Group Inc., IBL Ltd., Bolton Group, Grupo Albacore S.A., Dongwon Enterprises Co. Ltd.

4. What are the factors driving the Tuna Fish industry?
Increased demand for seafood worldwide, especially in the processed and canned food industries, improvements in fishing equipment, rising knowledge of the nutritional value of tuna, and increased international trade in tuna products are the main drivers of the tuna fish business.

5. Which Region held the largest market share in the Tuna Fish industry?
North America is expected to hold the largest market share in the industry.

6. What segments are covered in the Tuna Fish Market report?
Type, Species, End Use and Countries segment are covered in this report.