Seafood Packaging Market Summary

The global seafood packaging market size was estimated at USD 17.80 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 28.91 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5.6% from 2025 to 2033. This steady expansion reflects the increasing importance of effective packaging solutions in preserving seafood quality and safety. The market is primarily driven by the rising demand for convenient, ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat seafood products, along with the growing need to extend shelf life through the adoption of advanced packaging technologies that help reduce spoilage and food waste.

In addition, the expansion of global seafood trade and the implementation of stringent food safety regulations are significantly boosting the adoption of high-quality and sustainable packaging solutions. The rapid growth in global seafood consumption remains one of the most influential drivers of market growth. Rising health awareness and a growing preference for high-protein, low-fat diets have increased demand for fish, shrimp, shellfish, and other seafood products. According to FAO reports, global consumption of aquatic animal foods has more than doubled since the 1960s, with average per capita consumption increasing from 9.9 kg in the 1960s to 20.5 kg in 2019, and further reaching 20.7 kg by 2022. As trade in fresh and frozen seafood continues to expand across regions, there is an increasing need for packaging solutions that preserve freshness, maintain nutritional value, and ensure extended shelf life during transportation and storage. For instance, vacuum skin packaging is gaining popularity for salmon exports from Norway to Japan due to its superior preservation performance.

Key Market Trends & Insights

  • Asia Pacific dominated the global seafood packaging industry with the largest revenue share of over 42.0% in 2024. This dominance is supported by high seafood consumption, expanding aquaculture activities, and strong export-oriented seafood industries across the region.
  • The seafood packaging industry in China is expected to grow at a substantial CAGR of 6.1% from 2025 to 2033. Growth is driven by increasing domestic seafood demand, export expansion, and rising adoption of modern packaging solutions.
  • By material, the paper and paperboard segment is expected to grow at a considerable CAGR of 6.5% from 2025 to 2033 in terms of revenue, supported by increasing demand for sustainable and recyclable packaging materials.
  • By packaging technology, the vacuum skin packaging segment is expected to grow at a considerable CAGR of 6.2% from 2025 to 2033 in terms of revenue, owing to its ability to enhance product appearance and shelf life.
  • By seafood, the others segment is expected to grow at a considerable CAGR of 6.9% from 2025 to 2033 in terms of revenue, reflecting diversified seafood consumption patterns.

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Market Size & Forecast

  • 2024 Market Size: USD 17.80 Billion
  • 2033 Projected Market Size: USD 28.91 Billion
  • CAGR (2025-2033): 5.6%
  • Asia Pacific: Largest market in 2024

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

The competitive environment of the seafood packaging industry is moderately fragmented, characterized by the presence of a mix of global packaging giants, regional players, and niche specialists competing on innovation, cost efficiency, and sustainability. Strategic partnerships with seafood processors, investments in automated packaging solutions, and geographic expansion into high-consumption markets such as Asia-Pacific and Europe are common competitive tactics.

  • In January 2025, Royal Greenland, in partnership with Schur, introduced a fully recyclable, plastic-free packaging for its 15-pound frozen cod and halibut boxes, replacing PE-coated cardboard with a water-based coating. The solution withstands freezing, prevents sticking, enhances print quality, and recycles efficiently.
  • In March 2024, DS Smith launched DryPack, a 100% recyclable, water-resistant fiber-based seafood packaging using patented Greencoat technology. It replaces non-recyclable foam and wax-coated containers, keeping fish below 40°F for over 40 hours with ice and meeting IATA air freight standards. Shipped flat to cut transport costs and emissions, DryPack reduces plastic waste, supports carbon reduction, and ensures freshness while aligning with DS Smith’s low-carbon circular economy goals.

Key Players

  • DS Smith
  • AptarGroup, Inc.
  • Sealed Air
  • Amcor plc
  • ProAmpac
  • Frontier Packaging, Inc.
  • ULMA Packaging
  • Printpack
  • North Coast Seafoods
  • Trivium Packaging
  • CarePac
  • SeaCa Plastic Packaging

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Conclusion

The seafood packaging market is expected to witness sustained growth, supported by rising global seafood consumption, expanding international trade, and increasing demand for convenient and safe food products. Advances in packaging technologies such as vacuum skin packaging, along with growing emphasis on sustainability, are shaping market development. Asia Pacific remains a key growth region, driven by strong consumption and export activity, while China continues to emerge as a major contributor. As food safety regulations tighten and consumer expectations for freshness rise, innovative and sustainable seafood packaging solutions will play a critical role in supporting the long-term growth of the global seafood industry.