The global surimi market was valued at USD 6.34 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.90% during the forecast period. Increasing global seafood consumption, growing demand for protein-rich convenience foods, and the rising popularity of imitation seafood products are key factors fueling the expansion of the surimi market.
Market Overview
Surimi, a processed seafood product made primarily from deboned fish meat, is widely used to produce imitation crab, lobster, and other seafood analogs. It offers a sustainable and cost-effective protein alternative, especially in regions with declining wild fish stocks. Surimi’s long shelf life, neutral taste, and versatile application in food processing make it highly attractive for global food manufacturers, foodservice providers, and consumers seeking healthy, convenient, and affordable seafood options.
Key Market Drivers
Increasing Demand for Imitation Seafood: Surimi is a widely accepted substitute for more expensive seafood varieties, especially in the form of imitation crab sticks, seafood salads, and sushi ingredients. The demand for these products is rising in both developed and emerging markets.
Health and Nutrition Trends: Surimi is low in fat and rich in high-quality protein, making it a suitable option for health-conscious consumers. The incorporation of added nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids is also enhancing its health appeal.
Growth in Convenience and Ready-to-Eat Foods: Surimi-based products are easy to cook, store, and incorporate into fast food and frozen meals, aligning with the busy lifestyles of modern consumers.
Sustainable Seafood Practices: Surimi production typically utilizes underutilized fish species such as Alaska pollock, helping to reduce pressure on overfished stocks. This supports sustainability goals and appeals to environmentally conscious consumers.
Expansion of Foodservice Sector: Quick-service restaurants, sushi chains, and buffet-style dining outlets are increasingly featuring surimi-based dishes, driving commercial demand.
Market Challenges
Price Volatility of Raw Materials: The surimi market is sensitive to fluctuations in fish supply and costs, especially Alaska pollock and other whitefish used in its production.
Perception as a Processed Product: Despite its nutritional benefits, some health-focused consumers view surimi as overly processed, which could hamper its appeal in certain segments.
Cold Chain and Storage Requirements: Surimi products require refrigerated or frozen logistics infrastructure, which may pose challenges in regions with limited cold chain development.
Regional Regulatory Differences: Varying food safety and labeling regulations across countries can create compliance challenges for global manufacturers.
Market Segmentation
By Source: Fish-based Surimi (Alaska Pollock, Pacific Whiting, Threadfin Bream, Others), Meat-based Surimi (less common, niche applications)
By Form: Frozen Surimi, Chilled Surimi, Fresh Surimi
By Application: Imitation Seafood Products (crabsticks, shrimp, lobster, scallops), Ready-to-Eat Meals, Snacks, Surimi-based Salads & Sandwiches, Sushi Ingredients
By Distribution Channel: Supermarkets & Hypermarkets, Specialty Seafood Stores, Convenience Stores, Online Retail, Foodservice/HoReCa
By Region: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa
Regional Insights
Asia-Pacific dominates the global surimi market and is expected to maintain its lead due to high consumption of surimi-based products in Japan, South Korea, China, Thailand, and Vietnam. Japan is a pioneer in surimi production and innovation, with extensive usage in traditional cuisine. North America is a significant market driven by rising demand for imitation seafood, especially in sushi and seafood salad applications. Europe is experiencing growth due to increasing demand for healthy and sustainable seafood options, with countries like France, Spain, and the UK being key contributors. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging markets, supported by growing seafood consumption, urbanization, and foodservice expansion.
Competitive Landscape
The global surimi market is moderately fragmented, with leading players focusing on vertical integration, product development, and geographic expansion to maintain competitive advantage. Key companies are investing in sustainability initiatives, supply chain optimization, and R&D to cater to evolving consumer preferences.
Key players in the global surimi market include: American Seafoods Group, Apitoon Group, Aquamar Inc. (LM Foods LLC), Gadre Marine Pvt. Ltd., Glacier Fish Company LLC, Ocean Food Company Ltd., OceanFood Sales Ltd., Pacific Seafood Group, Russian Fishery Company LLC, Seaprimexco Vietnam, Thong Siek Global, Trident Seafoods Corporation, Viciunai Group, and others.
Recent Developments
American Seafoods Group has expanded its product offerings with new high-protein, ready-to-eat surimi snacks aimed at health-conscious U.S. consumers. Trident Seafoods Corporation invested in new processing equipment to improve efficiency and meet rising demand for surimi in domestic and international markets. Viciunai Group announced sustainability targets focused on traceable raw material sourcing and reducing processing waste.
Emerging Trends
Sustainable Packaging and Labeling: Companies are transitioning to recyclable packaging and emphasizing eco-labels such as MSC certification to attract environmentally conscious consumers.
Product Innovation: Launch of flavored and value-added surimi products, such as spicy sticks, marinated chunks, and high-protein spreads, is enhancing consumer interest and shelf presence.
Premiumization: Growth of gourmet surimi lines featuring natural ingredients, clean labels, and higher fish content is catering to premium market segments.
Globalization of Asian Cuisine: As Asian cuisines become more popular globally, the demand for sushi, hot pots, and other surimi-based dishes is rising, particularly in urban centers.
Market Outlook
The global surimi market is poised for sustained growth, driven by consumer preference for affordable, high-protein, and sustainable seafood alternatives. Manufacturers that innovate in flavor, format, and function while addressing health and sustainability concerns are likely to gain significant market traction.
Conclusion
The global surimi market, valued at USD 6.34 billion in 2023, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.90% over the forecast period, reaching an estimated USD 11.26 billion by 2032. With strong demand from the convenience food and foodservice sectors, and growing global appetite for seafood alternatives, surimi remains a key growth segment in the processed seafood industry.
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