Molluscs Market Overview

The global Molluscs market values is projected to reach US$ 118.74 Billion by 2035 from US$ 72.52 Billion in 2025. The market is expected to register a CAGR of 5.1% during 2025–2035. The Global Molluscs Market forecast growth is driven by increasing consumer demand, particularly in the Asia Pacific region. However, challenges such as rising production costs and the need for sustainable practices may influence future dynamics. Continued research into molluscs-derived products for therapeutic benefits and the expansion of aquaculture are expected to contribute positively to the market's evolution. In 2023, molluscs were the world's 316th most traded product, with a total trade value of $11.9 billion, representing 0.053% of total world trade. The leading exporters were China, Spain, Japan, India, and Peru. Conversely, the top importers were China, Spain, Italy, United States, and Japan. The Global Molluscs Market analysis refers to the worldwide trade, production, consumption, and distribution of molluscs, which are a diverse group of soft-bodied invertebrates within the phylum Mollusca. These aquatic organisms are commonly found in marine and freshwater environments and are an important source of protein and nutrients for human consumption. The market encompasses a wide range of mollusc species, both wild-caught and farmed (aquaculture), that are sold in fresh, frozen, canned, dried, or processed forms.

Moreover, government initiatives and public-private partnerships are accelerating adoption. For instance, India's Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) is investing in modern aquaculture practices, including mollusc hatcheries and coastal mariculture parks. Firms increasingly obtain certifications such as MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) or ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) to meet regulatory requirements and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. Major companies like Maruha Nichiro and Thai Union have vertically integrated operations, allowing better control over cost, quality, and traceability.

Molluscs Market Drivers and Opportunities

Growing Consumer Demand for Seafood is anticipated to lift the Molluscs market growth during the forecast period

​​​​The growing global consumer demand for seafood is poised to significantly drive the expansion of the global molluscs market growth during the forecast period. As consumers worldwide become more health-conscious and environmentally aware, seafood particularly molluscs such as oysters, clams, scallops, and squid is increasingly favored for its high protein content, low fat, and rich supply of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and essential minerals. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), global seafood consumption per capita has more than doubled from 9.9 kg in the 1960s to over 20.5 kg in 2022, and it is expected to reach nearly 22.5 kg by 2030. Molluscs, being a core part of this consumption, are benefiting from these dietary shifts. The substantial growth of the aquaculture industry further supports market expansion. Notably, 2022 marked the first year where aquaculture production surpassed capture fisheries, contributing 51% to global seafood production. Additionally, the rising demand for premium seafood products, such as abalone and oysters, particularly in the food service sector, underscores the market's upward trajectory. For instance, in May 2024, Alila Hinu Bay in Oman launched its luxurious 'white gold' Omani Abalone dining experience, highlighting the increasing consumer appetite for high-end seafood offerings. This trend is complemented by a growing emphasis on sustainability, with certifications like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) gaining prominence, as 94% of EU consumers in 2023 identified environmental protection as essential. Collectively, these factors indicate a robust growth trajectory for the global molluscs market in the coming years.

Expansion of Retail & Online Seafood Channels is a vital driver for influencing the growth of the global Molluscs market

​​​The expansion of retail and online seafood channels is emerging as a crucial driver of growth for the global molluscs market, offering greater accessibility, variety, and convenience to consumers worldwide. Traditional retail outlets such as supermarkets and hypermarkets have increasingly dedicated more shelf space to chilled, frozen, and ready-to-cook mollusc products, responding to rising consumer demand for high-protein, low-fat food choices. Simultaneously, the rise of online seafood platforms has revolutionized how consumers purchase molluscs, particularly in urban areas where convenience and direct-to-door delivery are key. According to FAO and Rabobank 2023 reports, seafood e-commerce grew by 35% globally between 2020 and 2023, and it’s expected to continue growing at a CAGR of over 10% through 2030. In countries like China, the U.S., and India, major retailers and tech platforms such as Alibaba’s Freshippo, Amazon Fresh, and BigBasket are investing heavily in cold chain logistics and live seafood delivery, bringing fresh and processed molluscs (like oysters, mussels, and squid) directly to households. For instance, Alibaba’s Freshippo reported a 40% YoY increase in online seafood sales in 2023, with molluscs being among the top performers in the shellfish category. Moreover, the development of user-friendly apps, subscription seafood services, and traceability tech (like QR-code scanning for origin details) has built consumer trust and boosted demand. Meanwhile, offline retail chains such as Walmart, Costco, Carrefour, and Tesco are expanding their premium seafood lines, often promoting sustainably sourced molluscs certified by organizations like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council). This rapid evolution of both retail infrastructure and digital seafood commerce has not only broadened market reach but also allowed mollusc producers to connect directly with consumers, eliminate middlemen, and ensure better pricing. As these channels continue to expand, especially in emerging markets, they are expected to significantly propel the global molluscs market trends during the forecast period.

Technological Advancements in Aquaculture are poised to create significant opportunities in the global Molluscs market

​​​Technological advancements in aquaculture are poised to create significant opportunities for the global molluscs market during the forecast period. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies is revolutionizing mollusc farming by enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and productivity. For instance, AI-driven systems facilitate real-time monitoring of water quality parameters such as dissolved oxygen, pH, and temperature, enabling early detection of unfavorable conditions and reducing mollusc mortality rates. Additionally, automated feeding systems utilize AI to optimize feed schedules and quantities based on mollusc behavior and environmental factors, minimizing waste and improving growth rates. The global intelligent aquaculture market, which encompasses these technologies. Deployment of smart aquaculture solutions in countries like Norway, China, Japan, and South Korea, where mollusc farmers are leveraging IoT sensors and machine learning to monitor water quality parameters (e.g., temperature, salinity, pH) in real-time. This allows for prompt adjustments to environmental conditions, reducing mortality rates and maximizing harvest quality. In Australia, the implementation of selective breeding programs for Pacific oysters has led to a 20–30% improvement in survival and growth rates, demonstrating how genetic advancements can boost output. Moreover, sustainable practices like Biofloc Technology (BFT) and Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) are gaining traction. BFT enhances water quality and provides supplementary nutrition by converting waste into microbial biomass, while IMTA promotes ecological balance by co-cultivating species from different trophic levels, such as molluscs alongside fish or seaweed. These innovations not only improve production efficiency but also align with the growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible seafood, thereby driving the expansion of the global molluscs market. ​

Molluscs Market Scope

Molluscs Market Report Segmentation Analysis

The Global Molluscs Market analysis is segmented into by Species, by Form, by End-use, by Distribution Channel, and by Region.

The Ruditapes Philippinarum segment is anticipated to hold the highest share of the global Molluscs market during the projected timeframe.

By Species, the Molluscs market is segmented into Crassostrea, Ruditapes Philippinarum, Scallops and Others. Ruditapes Philippinarum segment dominates the global Molluscs market share expected to hold around 40% in 2025. This dominance is due to its wide cultivation, particularly in China, South Korea, and Japan, where it is both a staple food and a major export commodity. These clams are relatively easy to farm in coastal mudflats and require minimal input, making them a sustainable and cost-effective species for aquaculture. However, Crassostrea (oysters) segment growth is supported by increasing demand for oysters in the foodservice industry and their growing popularity in gourmet cuisines across North America and Europe. Oysters are also gaining attention due to their nutritional benefits, including high zinc content and omega-3 fatty acids. The growth of sustainable oyster farming, particularly in the U.S., France, and Australia, is further boosting their share.

The Hypermarkets and Supermarkets segment is anticipated to hold the highest share of the market over the forecast period.

On the basis of Distribution Channel, the market is bifurcated into Hypermarkets and Supermarkets, Convenience Store, Online and Others. Among the major distribution channels, hypermarkets and supermarkets dominate the market. These retail giants offer a wide variety of fresh, frozen, and processed molluscs, supported by reliable cold chain infrastructure and attractive in-store displays. The growing demand for convenient, one-stop seafood shopping particularly in urban areas of North America, Europe, and emerging markets in Asia continues to strengthen this channel’s dominance. The online retail segment is rapidly expanding segment of the global molluscs market. This growth is driven by the surge in e-commerce platforms, online grocery services, and seafood-specific digital marketplaces that offer delivery of fresh and frozen molluscs directly to consumers. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly accelerated the adoption of online seafood shopping, and the trend has persisted due to its convenience, wider variety, and direct-to-home freshness. Markets such as China, the U.S., and the UK are leading in online seafood sales, with companies investing heavily in temperature-controlled logistics and user-friendly apps.

Food & Beverage segment dominated the market in 2024 and is predicted to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period.

In terms of End-use, the Molluscs market is segmented into Food & Beverage, Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics, Nutraceuticals and Animal Feed. Food & Beverage holds a dominant position in the Molluscs market. Molluscs such as clams, oysters, mussels, squid, and octopus are highly valued in culinary traditions across Asia, Europe, and the Americas due to their rich flavor, high protein content, and nutritional benefits. The rising popularity of seafood-based diets, coupled with the growing influence of global cuisine trends and increased awareness of health-conscious eating, has further propelled molluscs into mainstream consumption. Moreover, the surge in seafood consumption through restaurants, foodservice chains, and ready-to-eat seafood products supports this sector’s massive share.

The following segments are part of an in-depth analysis of the global Molluscs market:

Molluscs Market Share Analysis by Region

Asia Pacific is projected to hold the largest share of the global Molluscs market over the forecast period.

In 2024, Asia Pacific dominated the Molluscs market, accounting for approximately 62% of the global Molluscs market share. his regional leadership is driven by exceptionally high consumption rates in countries like China, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, and Thailand, where molluscs such as clams, oysters, squid, and scallops are staple foods. Additionally, Asia Pacific leads global molluscs aquaculture production, with China alone contributing over 70% of global mollusc farming, thanks to its vast coastal resources, favorable climatic conditions, and government-supported seafood initiatives. The integration of molluscs into daily diets, traditional medicine, and export markets reinforces the region’s stronghold.  China leads by a significant margin, accounting for approximately 65% of the Asia Pacific molluscs market share. China is not only the largest producer of molluscs—particularly oysters, clams, and scallops but also one of the top consumers. The government’s strong support for aquaculture, extensive coastal infrastructure, and high domestic demand have made molluscs a critical part of China's seafood industry. Molluscs are widely consumed in various forms fresh, dried, and processed—and also play a role in traditional Chinese medicine.

Japan holds the second-largest share, supported by a deep-rooted seafood culture and a high demand for species such as squid, octopus, and abalone. Japanese cuisine incorporates molluscs extensively in dishes like sushi, sashimi, and hot pots. Moreover, Japan’s advanced cold-chain logistics and premium seafood retail culture help maintain high-quality standards, contributing to sustained consumer demand. South Korea country’s coastal geography, combined with strong consumption of clams, mussels, and oysters, supports both domestic production and imports. Traditional Korean dishes like jogaetang (clam soup) and seafood pancakes (haemul pajeon) rely heavily on molluscs, making them a staple of the Korean diet. The government also supports aquaculture innovation, including eco-friendly farming techniques. However, Europe is expected to hold sustainable market share, underpinned by strong demand from countries like Spain, France, Italy, and Greece. Molluscs, particularly mussels, octopus, and oysters, are deeply rooted in European culinary traditions and benefit from the region’s emphasis on sustainable aquaculture, traceability, and premium seafood consumption. The European Union's supportive regulatory environment and high consumer awareness of health and environmental concerns are key factors bolstering mollusc consumption across the region.

Molluscs Market Competition Landscape Analysis

​​​ The competitive landscape of the global molluscs market share of players is characterized by a mix of multinational seafood corporations, regionally dominant aquaculture firms, and integrated supply chain players focused on mollusc farming, processing, distribution, and export.

Global Molluscs Market Recent Developments News:

WEDA Dammann & Westerkamp and Damm Aquakultur Collaboration: In November 2024, The German feeding systems specialist WEDA Dammann & Westerkamp partnered with Damm Aquakultur to advance shrimp and fish farming technologies. This collaboration focuses on developing husbandry, feeding, water treatment, and rearing technologies for marine animals, aiming to accelerate strategic and technical advancements in aquaculture.

Bioriginal Food & Science Corp.'s Acquisition of POS Biosciences Corp.: In February 2024, Bioriginal Food & Science Corp., a subsidiary of Cooke Inc., acquired POS Biosciences Corp. from Canopy Growth Corp. This acquisition is expected to bolster Bioriginal's capabilities in the food and science sector, potentially impacting the molluscs market through enhanced product offerings.

ADAMA Ltd.'s Introduction of Feralla: In February 2024, ADAMA Ltd., a global crop protection company, announced plans to introduce Feralla®, an innovative active ingredient, into the European molluscicide market. This product aims to provide farmers with advanced solutions for pest control, potentially impacting mollusc populations and related agricultural practices.

Sea Harvest Group's Acquisition of Terrasan Group's Subsidiaries: In January 2024, Sea Harvest Group Limited announced its intention to acquire 100% of Terrasan Group Limited's subsidiaries involved in abalone farming, processing, and sales for an initial amount of R965 million. This acquisition includes West Point Fishing, a vertically integrated pelagic fish business, and Aqunion, a leading abalone business in South Africa. The move aims to diversify Sea Harvest's portfolio and enhance its footprint in the aquaculture sector.

The Global Molluscs Market is dominated by a few large companies, such as

·         Thai Union Group PCL

·         Pacific Seafood Group

·         Maruha Nichiro Corporation

·         Nippon Suisan Kaisha, Ltd.

·         Clearwater Seafoods

·         High Liner Foods Inc.

·         Nueva Pescanova S.L.

·         Trident Seafoods Corporation

·         Cooke Aquaculture Inc.

·         Dongwon Industries Co., Ltd.

·         Labeyrie Fine Foods

·         East Coast Seafood Group

·         Blue Harvest Fisheries

·         Kyokuyo Co., Ltd.

·         American Seafoods Group

·         Others