Fishery By-Products Market Growth, Trends, and Sustainability Challenges

 

The fishery by-products market is projected to expand from USD 26.34 billion in 2025 to USD 37.46 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 7.3% during the forecast period. This growth occurs at a time when the global fishing industry is facing sustainability challenges, regulatory pressures, and the need to adopt innovative technologies.

 

1. Estimated size: USD 26.34 billion (2025).
2. Forecast: USD 37.46 billion (2030).
3. Implied CAGR (2025–2030): 7.3%.

 

1. Fishmeal and fish oil remain foundational for aquafeed and animal nutrition due to their amino acid profile and long-chain omega-3s, supporting growth and immune health in aquatic species, poultry, and swine.
2. Marine collagen and gelatin from skins, scales, and bones are gaining popularity in nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and medical biomaterials, benefiting from their religious/dietary compatibility and strong functional properties.
3. Bioactives and specialty compounds (e.g., chitosan, enzymes, peptides) are gaining traction for pharmaceuticals, wound care, and advanced functional ingredients.

 

Market Challenges: Sustainability and Regulations

 

Sustainability remains a key concern, as global fisheries resources are declining. Overfishing has reduced at least 4% of fish stocks annually every decade since the 1930s, and climate change is accelerating this trend. Additionally, fish processing is highly energy-intensive, contributing significantly to carbon footprints.

 

Another layer of complexity comes from regulatory frameworks such as the European Union’s Common Fisheries Policy, which enforces strict traceability and eco-labeling requirements. While these policies promote responsible practices, they also raise compliance costs—particularly for developing nations.

 

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Fishery By-Products Market Opportunities: Technology and Consumer Demand

 

Despite the challenges, notable opportunities exist. Enzymatic extraction and recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) are emerging technologies that improve yield and efficiency. Moreover, consumer behavior is shifting—73% of consumers are willing to pay more for products that are certified as sustainable. This opens the door for value-added fishery by-products that can support both global food security and circular economy initiatives.

 

1. Enzymatic extraction and hydrolysis: Enhances functional properties of proteins and peptides, reduces harsh chemical use, and improves yields.
2. Membrane and chromatographic separations: Enable targeted fractionation of oils, peptides, collagen, and bioactives.
3. Digital traceability: Data-driven supply assurance from vessel to ingredient for regulatory and brand claims.

 

By Type: Fishmeal Leads the Market

 

Fishmeal continues to dominate the global fishery by-products market, both in volume and revenue. It is a cornerstone of the industry, with applications in:

 

 

Fishmeal and fish oil are primarily derived from fish processing residues such as heads, bones, viscera, and trimmings. Despite the rising popularity of high-value ingredients like collagen, gelatin, and chitin/chitosan, fishmeal maintains its position due to established processing methods and robust demand.

 

A growing trend is its inclusion in premium pet foods, marketed as hypoallergenic, high-protein, and omega-rich products for dogs and cats.

 

By End Use: Animal Feed Takes the Largest Share

 

The animal feed industry, particularly aquafeed, is the largest end-use sector for fishery by-products. Aquaculture, the fastest-growing sector in global food production, relies heavily on nutrient-rich inputs like fishmeal and fish oil.

 

Other applications include:

 

 

This diversification of applications continues to drive demand for fishery-derived animal feed products.

 

Regional Outlook: Europe to See Rapid Growth

 

The European market is expected to experience strong growth between 2025 and 2030, driven by both traditional processors and new innovators. Key countries include Norway, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Italy, and Greece.

 

Europe is not only a major producer of fishmeal and fish oil but is also investing in bioactive compounds and sustainable materials derived from by-products.

 

 

This indicates Europe’s move toward value-added by-products despite volume fluctuations.

 

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Key Players in the Market

 

Some of the leading companies shaping the global fishery by-products market include:

 

 

Recent Industry Developments