Market Overview
According to the research report, the molluscs market was valued at USD 63.20 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 99.32 billion by 2032, to grow at a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period.
Molluscs, comprising species such as squid, octopus, clams, mussels, oysters, and scallops, are recognized for their nutritional profile, culinary versatility, and environmental sustainability. With lower carbon footprints compared to terrestrial meat production, molluscs are ideal for health-conscious and eco-conscious consumers. Farmed molluscs are gaining ground due to reduced environmental impact, lower feed requirements, and improved technological integration in hatcheries and farming systems. Global regulatory bodies are encouraging sustainable aquaculture practices, leading to certifications and traceability becoming standard across the value chain.
Market Trends: Country-wise Analysis
China
China remains the undisputed leader in the molluscs market, with the highest production and consumption rates globally. Home to some of the world’s largest mollusc farms, particularly in coastal provinces like Shandong and Fujian, China benefits from favorable policies and strong seafood culture. The country’s emphasis on bivalve consumption, including clams and mussels, aligns with traditional cuisine and health values.
Domestic consumption continues to rise due to urbanization, income growth, and increased health awareness. Simultaneously, China plays a dominant role in the shellfish trade, exporting molluscs throughout Asia and the West while importing premium marine delicacies for its luxury dining sector.
Japan
Japan’s molluscs market is highly developed, centered around high-value marine delicacies such as squid, scallops, and oysters. With deep-rooted culinary traditions involving sashimi, sushi, and grilled seafood, molluscs are integral to Japanese diets.
Though production has declined marginally due to environmental and demographic constraints, demand remains robust. Japan’s consumers prioritize quality, freshness, and traceability, influencing import patterns from neighboring countries with advanced aquaculture practices.
South Korea
South Korea has a vibrant domestic molluscs market, especially in bivalves like oysters and mussels. The country’s food culture integrates molluscs in traditional dishes such as hot pots and seafood stews, driving consistent year-round demand.
Korea’s aquaculture sector is modernizing rapidly, incorporating automated farming systems and improved water management. Imports are primarily focused on supplementing squid and octopus demand, as local fisheries experience pressure from overfishing and climate change.
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Vietnam
Vietnam is quickly emerging as a key player in the global molluscs market, thanks to favorable coastal geography and government support for aquaculture practices. The country produces a wide range of molluscs, including scallops and clams, for both domestic consumption and export.
Domestic trends reflect increasing bivalve consumption, especially in urban centers where seafood restaurants and supermarket chains are flourishing. As Vietnam enhances its processing and cold chain infrastructure, its influence on the shellfish trade is set to grow.
Spain
Spain is a major European consumer and producer of molluscs, with mussels and octopus featuring prominently in Mediterranean cuisine. Galicia, in northwestern Spain, is one of Europe’s most productive bivalve farming regions, leveraging centuries-old techniques alongside modern innovation.
Domestic demand for marine delicacies remains high, supported by the hospitality industry and traditional gastronomy. Spain also imports molluscs from Latin America and North Africa to meet demand surges and diversify its seafood portfolio.
France
France has a sophisticated molluscs market that combines domestic farming—especially oysters and mussels—with high-end culinary applications. Consumers value origin-specific labeling, sustainability, and freshness.
With rising emphasis on organic and environmentally friendly seafood, France’s molluscs market reflects broader European consumer sentiments. Consumption peaks during festive seasons and is supported by strong retail and restaurant networks.
Italy
Italy maintains a steady molluscs consumption pattern, rooted in coastal traditions and a rich seafood-oriented diet. Mussels and clams are staples in pasta dishes and risottos, especially in southern and coastal regions.
Italy’s market is increasingly influenced by foodservice trends, with high demand from restaurants and pizzerias offering seafood-based offerings. Domestic aquaculture is growing, but imports continue to supplement rising consumer demand.
United States
The U.S. molluscs market is characterized by its diversity in consumption and steady growth in aquaculture. Clams, oysters, and squid are widely consumed, with rising demand for fresh and value-added seafood products.
American consumers are gradually adopting bivalve consumption due to increased awareness of their sustainability and health benefits. Coastal states such as Washington, Massachusetts, and Virginia are hubs for production, while imports from Asia and Latin America support broader distribution.
copyright
copyright has a robust molluscs sector, particularly in Eastern provinces where mussel and oyster farming is a key economic activity. The market is buoyed by domestic demand and a strong export focus.
Canadian consumers are aligned with global health trends, favoring seafood over red meat. Sustainability, origin labeling, and eco-certifications are becoming standard in retail environments, promoting growth in this sector.
Chile
Chile is a significant exporter of mussels and scallops, with the molluscs market playing a crucial role in the nation’s seafood industry. While much of the production is destined for overseas markets, domestic bivalve consumption is also rising, particularly in urban areas.
The government supports aquaculture development through public-private partnerships, making Chile one of the most competitive molluscs producers globally. Increasing focus on value-added products is driving further interest in molluscan exports.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE, as a seafood import hub in the Middle East, is experiencing rising molluscs consumption driven by population growth, tourism, and fine dining. High demand for marine delicacies like scallops and squid reflects changing dietary habits among residents and tourists.
Though local production is limited, investments in aquaculture practices are being explored to reduce dependency on imports and ensure food security. The premium seafood market, including molluscs, is expanding rapidly in retail and hospitality sectors.
South Africa
South Africa’s molluscs market is growing steadily, supported by increasing consumer preference for affordable protein alternatives. Bivalves, particularly mussels, are cultivated along the west coast, and demand is gradually extending to inland cities.
Awareness campaigns around the health benefits of bivalve consumption and job creation in coastal communities are shaping market dynamics. While exports remain limited, domestic consumption is poised to grow with improved distribution networks.
Conclusion
The global molluscs market is a dynamic, diverse sector fueled by shifting food habits, advancements in sustainable aquaculture practices, and increased appreciation for marine delicacies. As the shellfish trade expands, each country plays a distinct role in shaping supply, demand, and innovation within the industry. Country-wise analysis highlights how cultural traditions, economic policies, and environmental capacities intersect to determine consumption patterns and production strategies.
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