Molluscs (e.g., clams, oysters, mussels, scallops, squid, cuttlefish, octopus) are an important group of seafood products consumed worldwide. They are valued for their nutritional profile (high protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals), culinary versatility, and use in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and animal feed. The market spans wild-caught and aquaculture-based production, with growing demand for sustainable aquaculture practices.
The global Molluscs market was valued at USD 68.35 Billion in 2023 and growing at a CAGR of 5.00% from 2024 to 2033. The market is expected to reach USD 111.33 Billion by 2033.
2. Recent Development
- Expansion of mollusc aquaculture in Asia-Pacific and Europe, particularly mussels and oysters.
- Rising popularity of value-added mollusc products (ready-to-eat, frozen, marinated).
- Adoption of eco-certifications (MSC, ASC) as consumers demand traceable and sustainable seafood.
- Use of mollusc-derived compounds (e.g., chitosan from shells) in biomedical, cosmetic, and packaging applications.
3. Market Dynamics
The market is driven by growing seafood consumption, increasing interest in functional and sustainable foods, and the expansion of aquaculture technologies. However, it is constrained by environmental issues such as climate change, ocean acidification, and pollution, which impact mollusc survival and farming yields.
4. Drivers
- Rising global seafood consumption and protein demand.
- Growth in aquaculture production techniques for mussels, oysters, scallops.
- Increasing consumer awareness of health benefits of molluscs.
- Strong demand from foodservice, retail, and export markets.
5. Restraints
- Environmental challenges (red tides, ocean acidification, marine pollution).
- Disease outbreaks in aquaculture.
- Seasonal availability of wild molluscs.
- Price volatility and dependence on export markets.
6. Opportunities
- Growth in value-added products (frozen, packaged, flavored).
- Expanding use of molluscs in nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
- Rising demand for sustainable and eco-labeled seafood.
- Market expansion in emerging economies with increasing disposable incomes.
7. Segment Analysis
- By Type: Bivalves (clams, mussels, oysters, scallops), Cephalopods (squid, octopus, cuttlefish), Gastropods (abalone, whelks).
- By Form: Fresh, Frozen, Canned, Processed/Value-added.
- By Source: Wild-caught, Farmed (aquaculture).
8. Regional Segmentation Analysis
- Asia-Pacific: Largest producer and consumer, led by China, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam.
- Europe: Strong consumption of mussels, oysters, and scallops; demand for certified sustainable seafood.
- North America: Growing market with high imports; strong restaurant demand for clams, oysters, and squid.
- Latin America: Emerging production hub, especially in Chile and Peru (scallops and mussels).
- Middle East & Africa: Smaller market but growing interest in frozen imports.
9. Application Segment Analysis
- Food & Beverages: Largest segment, including retail and foodservice.
- Nutraceuticals & Pharmaceuticals: Mollusc extracts (omega-3s, chitosan, bioactive peptides).
- Cosmetics & Personal Care: Marine collagen and shell-derived ingredients.
- Industrial Use: Chitosan for biodegradable packaging, agriculture, and water treatment.
10. Some of the Key Market Players
- Nissui (Nippon Suisan Kaisha Ltd.)
- Maruha Nichiro Corporation
- Dongwon Industries
- Pacific Seafood Group
- Stolt Sea Farm
- Camanchaca S.A.
- Pescanova S.A.
- Taylor Shellfish Farms
- Thai Union Group PCL
- Regional aquaculture cooperatives and small-scale producers.
11. Report Description
This report provides a detailed analysis of the global molluscs market, covering production, consumption, trade, and application trends. It highlights market drivers (seafood demand, health awareness, aquaculture growth), restraints (environmental threats, disease outbreaks), and opportunities (value-added products, non-food applications, eco-certified seafood). The report also breaks down the market by type, source, and form, examines regional trends, and profiles key industry players. The market outlook points toward steady growth, supported by rising global seafood consumption and innovations in sustainable aquaculture.