The global mackerel market is poised for steady growth, with its value projected to reach USD 1,793.90 million by 2034, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% over the forecast period. This growth is underpinned by rising global seafood consumption, increasing awareness of the health benefits associated with mackerel, and expanding international trade networks. The market’s upward trajectory is supported by growing demand for protein-rich, sustainable seafood products in both developed and developing regions.
Mackerel, a type of oily fish known for its rich omega-3 fatty acid content and high nutritional value, has gained significant popularity among health-conscious consumers. The increasing emphasis on cardiovascular health, brain function, and immunity has accelerated the demand for mackerel in various forms including frozen, canned, smoked, and fresh. Additionally, the species’ relatively short lifespan and high reproduction rates make it a more sustainable choice compared to other fish, further boosting its global appeal.
Market Overview
The mackerel market encompasses a diverse range of products and consumption patterns, influenced by regional culinary preferences and distribution capabilities. As per current trends, the demand for processed and ready-to-eat seafood products is driving the growth of canned and frozen mackerel segments. The market is also seeing a rise in online seafood retailing, with e-commerce platforms playing an increasing role in expanding consumer access to quality seafood across regions.
Health benefits remain a cornerstone of mackerel’s popularity. Rich in vitamin B12, selenium, and protein, mackerel is recommended by dietitians and health professionals alike. The fish’s ability to lower bad cholesterol, improve heart health, and aid in cognitive function continues to make it a staple in diets worldwide. Furthermore, government initiatives promoting seafood consumption and aquaculture sustainability are expected to provide additional tailwinds to the market.
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Market Segmentation
By Product Type:
- Fresh Mackerel
- Frozen Mackerel
- Canned Mackerel
- Smoked Mackerel
- Others
Among these, canned mackerel dominates the global market due to its long shelf life, ease of transport, and convenience. However, frozen mackerel is also gaining significant traction, especially in regions where cold-chain logistics and export/import operations are well-established.
By Distribution Channel:
- Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- Convenience Stores
- Online Retail
- Specialty Seafood Stores
- Foodservice (Hotels, Restaurants, Catering)
Supermarkets and hypermarkets hold the largest market share due to their wide product variety and competitive pricing. However, the online retail segment is expected to witness the highest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by changing consumer shopping habits and the expansion of cold-chain infrastructure for seafood delivery.
By End-Use:
- Household
- Commercial (Hotels, Restaurants, Cafes)
- Industrial (Catering, Food Processing)
The household segment remains the dominant end-use category, but the commercial segment is growing rapidly with the resurgence of the hospitality industry post-COVID-19 and increasing incorporation of seafood in gourmet and casual dining.
Regional Analysis
Asia-Pacific dominates the global mackerel market and is expected to continue its lead through 2034. The region's large population base, cultural affinity for seafood, and booming aquaculture sector play critical roles. Countries like Japan, China, South Korea, and the Philippines are significant consumers, while Thailand and Vietnam act as major processing and export hubs. Increasing per capita seafood consumption and rising health consciousness in emerging economies further enhance regional market prospects.
Europe is the second-largest regional market, led by countries such as Norway, the UK, Spain, and Portugal, where mackerel is a traditional part of the diet. The region benefits from robust fisheries management, sustainability initiatives, and strong consumer demand for high-quality canned and smoked seafood. The European Union’s focus on sustainable fishing and traceability continues to support long-term industry growth.
North America, particularly the United States and Canada, is witnessing gradual growth in the mackerel market. Increased awareness about the health benefits of oily fish and a growing multicultural population accustomed to mackerel consumption are driving factors. Moreover, the rise of e-commerce platforms for fresh and frozen fish delivery is reshaping consumer access to international seafood varieties.
Latin America and the Middle East Africa (MEA) regions are experiencing increasing demand for mackerel, especially in urban centers. Improvements in cold-chain logistics, dietary shifts towards high-protein foods, and growing seafood imports are fostering new opportunities in these emerging markets.
Key Market Players
The global mackerel market is highly competitive, with several established players involved in fishing, processing, packaging, and distribution. These companies are focusing on product quality, sustainability, and geographic expansion to strengthen their market positions. Major industry participants include:
- Austevoll Seafood ASA – A Norwegian seafood giant with diversified operations across pelagic fish species including mackerel, offering high-quality frozen and canned products for global export.
- Bumble Bee Seafoods (FCF Co., Ltd.) – A well-known North American seafood brand offering a wide range of canned seafood products, including premium mackerel varieties.
- Chicken of the Sea International (Thai Union Group PCL) – A leading global player recognized for its canned seafood offerings, leveraging Thailand’s processing capacity and global distribution network.
- Connors Bros. Clover Leaf Seafoods Company (Centre Partners) – A Canadian seafood processor with a strong presence in the North American market, offering mackerel under trusted consumer brands.
- Conservas Selectas de Galicia S.L. (Grupo Jealsa Rianxeira) – A key European seafood processor specializing in canned mackerel and other pelagic fish, focusing on traditional recipes and regional markets.
- Dongwon FB Co., Ltd. (Dongwon Industries Co., Ltd.) – A South Korean leader in seafood processing and global distribution, known for high-volume exports of canned and frozen mackerel.
- Frinsa del Noroeste S.A. – A Spanish company producing a wide range of canned seafood products including premium-quality mackerel, with strong market penetration in Europe.
- Hottlet Frozen Foods NV – A Belgium-based supplier known for frozen seafood offerings, serving foodservice and retail clients across Europe.
- Leroy Seafood Group ASA – A major seafood exporter from Norway offering fresh and frozen pelagic fish, with a growing focus on sustainability and traceability in mackerel sourcing.
- Starkist Co. (Dongwon Industries Co., Ltd.) – One of the most recognized canned seafood brands in the U.S., Starkist offers diverse products including mackerel under parent Dongwon’s global strategy.
- Tri Marine International (Bolton Group S.r.l.) – A global seafood supply chain company managing sustainable sourcing, processing, and marketing of pelagic species including mackerel.
These companies are prioritizing sustainable fishing practices, vertical integration, and innovation in packaging and preservation to meet evolving consumer and regulatory expectations. Strategic alliances, mergers, and expansions into new distribution channels, especially online retail and foodservice partnerships, are key trends shaping competition.
Future Outlook
The mackerel market is expected to maintain a robust growth trajectory over the next decade. Increasing urbanization, dietary shifts toward healthier proteins, and greater emphasis on sustainability will continue to fuel demand across product categories and regions. The integration of advanced cold-chain logistics, digital seafood marketplaces, and transparency in sourcing will further drive market confidence and expansion.
Technological innovations in aquaculture, fish preservation, and packaging are expected to enhance shelf life, reduce spoilage, and improve distribution efficiency. With climate change posing potential risks to wild catch volumes, the industry may see a gradual shift towards aquaculture-based mackerel supply, supported by research and sustainable marine practices.
Conclusion
The global mackerel market is entering a promising growth phase, supported by rising consumer demand for nutritious, convenient, and sustainable seafood. While the market faces challenges such as overfishing regulations and logistics constraints, proactive investments in innovation and responsible sourcing are positioning key players for long-term success. As the global seafood ecosystem evolves, mackerel is set to remain a vital and valuable component of the world’s food supply chain.
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