Introduction
Mussels are a popular seafood delicacy enjoyed by many around the world. As the demand for mussels continues to rise, countries are increasingly importing this shellfish to meet consumer needs. In this report, we will explore the top 10 mussel importing countries in the world in 2025, highlighting key trends, financial data, and industry insights.
1. China
Overview
China is the largest importer of mussels in the world, with a significant portion of its imports coming from countries such as New Zealand, Chile, and Spain. The growing middle-class population in China has led to an increased demand for high-quality seafood products, including mussels.
Financial Data
In 2025, China’s mussel imports are projected to reach an all-time high, with an estimated value of $500 million. This represents a 10% increase from the previous year, showcasing the country’s strong appetite for mussels.
Industry Insights
The Chinese market for mussels is highly competitive, with both domestic and international suppliers vying for market share. Companies such as Zhangzidao Group and Dalian Zhangzidao Fishery Group are leading players in the Chinese mussel import market.
2. United States
Overview
The United States is another major player in the global mussel import market, with a diverse range of suppliers from countries like Canada, New Zealand, and Chile. The demand for mussels in the US is driven by a growing interest in sustainable seafood options.
Financial Data
In 2025, the US is expected to import mussels worth $400 million, reflecting steady growth in the market. The US market for mussels is characterized by a preference for organic and environmentally-friendly products.
Industry Insights
Companies such as Clearwater Seafoods and PanaPesca USA are key players in the US mussel import market, offering a wide range of high-quality products to meet consumer demand.
3. Japan
Overview
Japan is a significant importer of mussels, with a preference for premium-quality products from countries like New Zealand, Australia, and Scotland. The Japanese market for mussels is driven by a strong culinary tradition and a focus on freshness.
Financial Data
In 2025, Japan’s mussel imports are expected to reach $300 million, reflecting a stable market for this seafood product. The demand for mussels in Japan is expected to remain strong in the coming years.
Industry Insights
Key players in the Japanese mussel import market include companies like Maruha Nichiro Corporation and Nissui, which have a strong presence in the seafood industry.
4. Spain
Overview
Spain is a major importer of mussels, with a preference for products from countries like Chile, France, and Ireland. The Spanish market for mussels is driven by a rich culinary tradition and a love for seafood.
Financial Data
In 2025, Spain’s mussel imports are projected to reach $250 million, showcasing the country’s strong demand for this shellfish. The market for mussels in Spain is expected to continue growing in the coming years.
Industry Insights
Companies such as Nueva Pescanova and Grupo Freiremar are leading players in the Spanish mussel import market, offering a wide range of products to cater to consumer preferences.
5. Italy
Overview
Italy is a significant importer of mussels, with a preference for products from countries like New Zealand, Chile, and Scotland. The Italian market for mussels is driven by a strong culinary culture and a focus on high-quality seafood.
Financial Data
In 2025, Italy’s mussel imports are expected to reach $200 million, reflecting steady growth in the market. The demand for mussels in Italy is expected to remain robust in the coming years.
Industry Insights
Key players in the Italian mussel import market include companies like Coop Italia and Conad, which have a strong presence in the seafood industry.
6. France
Overview
France is a major importer of mussels, with a preference for products from countries like Spain, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The French market for mussels is driven by a love for seafood and a rich culinary heritage.
Financial Data
In 2025, France’s mussel imports are projected to reach $180 million, showcasing the country’s strong demand for this shellfish. The market for mussels in France is expected to continue growing in the coming years.
Industry Insights
Companies such as Groupe Roullier and Les Pêcheurs de France are leading players in the French mussel import market, offering a wide range of products to cater to consumer preferences.
7. Germany
Overview
Germany is a significant importer of mussels, with a preference for products from countries like Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway. The German market for mussels is driven by a growing interest in sustainable seafood options.
Financial Data
In 2025, Germany’s mussel imports are expected to reach $150 million, reflecting steady growth in the market. The demand for mussels in Germany is expected to remain strong in the coming years.
Industry Insights
Key players in the German mussel import market include companies like Deutsche See and Friesenkrone, which have a strong presence in the seafood industry.
8. United Kingdom
Overview
The United Kingdom is a major importer of mussels, with a preference for products from countries like Ireland, Scotland, and France. The UK market for mussels is driven by a strong culinary tradition and a love for seafood.
Financial Data
In 2025, the UK’s mussel imports are projected to reach $130 million, showcasing the country’s strong demand for this shellfish. The market for mussels in the UK is expected to continue growing in the coming years.
Industry Insights
Companies such as Young’s Seafood and The Saucy Fish Co. are leading players in the UK mussel import market, offering a wide range of products to cater to consumer preferences.
9. Netherlands
Overview
The Netherlands is a significant importer of mussels, with a preference for products from countries like Belgium, Denmark, and Ireland. The Dutch market for mussels is driven by a growing interest in sustainable seafood options.
Financial Data
In 2025, the Netherlands’ mussel imports are expected to reach $120 million, reflecting steady growth in the market. The demand for mussels in the Netherlands is expected to remain strong in the coming years.
Industry Insights
Key players in the Dutch mussel import market include companies like Kingfish Zeeland and Prins & Dingemanse, which have a strong presence in the seafood industry.
10. Canada
Overview
Canada is a significant importer of mussels, with a preference for products from countries like the United States, New Zealand, and Chile. The Canadian market for mussels is driven by a growing interest in sustainable seafood options.
Financial Data
In 2025, Canada’s mussel imports are expected to reach $100 million, reflecting steady growth in the market. The demand for mussels in Canada is expected to remain strong in the coming years.
Industry Insights
Key players in the Canadian mussel import market include companies like Clearwater Seafoods and Atlantic Aqua Farms, which have a strong presence in the seafood industry.
In conclusion, the global market for mussel imports is thriving, with countries around the world showing a strong appetite for this popular seafood product. As consumer demand continues to grow, the top 10 mussel importing countries in 2025 are expected to play a key role in shaping the future of the industry.
