Tilapia Market Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Global Industry Analysis: By Source (Organic, Conventional), By Species (Nile Tilapia, Tilapias Nei, Blue Nile Tilapia, Mozambique Tilapia, Others), By Product (Frozen Fillets, Whole Fish, Fresh Fillets, Others), By Application (Food Industry, Pharmaceutical Industry, Animal Feed, Pet Food, Food Service, Retail, Others) and Region Forecast 2020-2031

Tilapia Market size was valued at US$ 13,200 million in 2024 and is projected to reach US$ 18,900 million by 2031, growing at a 5.3% CAGR during the forecast period (2025 – 2031). Moreover, the U.S. market is projected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated value of US$ 2,050 million by 2031. The market refers to the global trade, production, and consumption of tilapia, a highly versatile freshwater fish widely cultivated for its mild taste, rapid growth, and adaptability to various farming conditions. Tilapia is a key species in aquaculture, produced mainly through intensive and semi-intensive farming systems in freshwater environments. The market encompasses fresh, frozen, and processed tilapia products, catering to both domestic and international demand. Key stakeholders in the market include fish farmers, feed manufacturers, processors, distributors, and retailers, all contributing to the expansion of commercial tilapia farming.

The global tilapia market is experiencing steady growth, driven by rising seafood consumption, expanding aquaculture practices, and increasing health awareness among consumers. China, Indonesia, Egypt, and Brazil are among the leading producers, benefiting from favourable climatic conditions and government support for aquaculture. Demand for high-protein, low-fat fish is growing, particularly in North America and Europe, where tilapia is widely used in ready-to-eat and processed seafood products. Additionally, advancements in sustainable aquaculture techniques, disease-resistant tilapia strains, and improved feed formulations are further boosting market expansion.

Facts & Figures

• In fact, Over 80% of aquaculture output is produced under SI systems in earthen ponds, with mono-sex Nile tilapia being the primary species
• The aquaculture of Nile tilapia in floating cages is widely practiced in Egypt, with a production amounting to 119,291 mt in 2019, representing 11% of total farmed tilapia production and 7.3% of total aquaculture output.
• The USA is the largest tilapia importer in the world, with imports of 189,565 mt in 2018, representing 35% of total tilapia imports, while China is the largest tilapia exporter, contributing 444,851 mt (80%) to global tilapia exports.

Table-1: The contribution of tilapia to total freshwater (FW) fish production in major tilapia producing countries in 2019.

Table-2: Major tilapia importers in Europe, and amounts imported (Mt) in 2010 and 2015–2019

Recent Developments

• In May 2024, global tilapia farming leader Regal Springs introduced "Natural Additions," a new business unit focused on fish by-products. This initiative aims to ensure 100% utilization of the fish produced, promoting sustainability and waste reduction in tilapia farming.
• In February 2024, tilapia genetics supplier GenoMar introduced its first product designed for Brazilian fish farmers, a key player in global tilapia production. The GenoMar 1000 is engineered for faster growth, disease resistance, and higher fillet yield, boosting farm efficiency. Pre-launch trials showed it reaching 1,000g in just 114 days (cages) and 121 days (ponds), growing 30% faster than top-performing local genetics.

Tilapia Market Segmentation

Based on the source

• Organic
• Conventional

The conventional segment holds the leading share in the Tilapia market, driven by its cost-effectiveness, large-scale production capacity, and widespread adoption. Conventional tilapia farming relies on intensive and semi-intensive aquaculture systems, which allow for high-yield production at lower costs compared to organic methods. This approach ensures consistent supply to meet the rising global demand, particularly in developing countries where affordability is a key factor. Additionally, advancements in feed formulations, disease management, and water quality control have improved the sustainability and efficiency of conventional farming. The strong presence of export-oriented tilapia farms, particularly in Asia Pacific and Latin America, further strengthens this segment’s dominance in the market.

Based on the species

• Nile Tilapia
• Tilapias Nei
• Blue Nile Tilapia
• Mozambique Tilapia
• Others

Nile Tilapia holds the largest market share due to its rapid growth rate, adaptability, and high market demand. This species is widely farmed in Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Africa, where it thrives in various water conditions, making it ideal for large-scale aquaculture. Nile Tilapia’s high feed conversion efficiency and resistance to diseases further enhance its productivity, reducing farming costs and increasing profitability. Additionally, its mild flavor, firm texture, and high nutritional value make it a preferred choice in domestic and international seafood markets. The strong export demand for frozen and filleted Nile Tilapia, particularly from North America and Europe, further strengthens its market dominance.

Based on the product

• Frozen Fillets
• Whole Fish
• Fresh Fillets
• Others

Frozen fillets lead the Tilapia Market, driven by longer shelf life, ease of storage, and increasing global trade. This segment benefits from strong demand in North America and Europe, where consumers prefer convenient, ready-to-cook seafood options. The expansion of cold-chain logistics and advanced freezing technologies has improved product quality, making frozen fillets a reliable choice for supermarkets, restaurants, and food service providers. Additionally, export-oriented tilapia farms in China, Vietnam, and Latin America focus on frozen fillets to meet international market needs. The affordability, high protein content, and consistent availability further strengthen this segment’s leading position.

Based on the application

• Food Industry
• Pharmaceutical Industry
• Animal Feed
• Pet Food
• Food Service
• Retail
• Others

The food industry holds the largest share in the Tilapia market, driven by rising global seafood consumption and increasing preference for affordable protein sources. Tilapia is widely used in restaurants, packaged seafood products, and home cooking, making it a staple in many diets. The fish’s mild flavour, high protein content, and versatility contribute to its widespread adoption in fresh, frozen, and processed forms. Additionally, the expansion of supermarkets, hypermarkets, and online seafood sales platforms has enhanced accessibility for consumers. The growing demand for nutritious, low-fat fish further strengthens tilapia’s dominance in the global food industry.