Top 20 Aquaculture Importers in the World

Robert Gultig

18 October 2025

Top 20 Aquaculture Importers in the World

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Written by Robert Gultig

18 October 2025

Introduction:

Aquaculture is a rapidly growing industry that plays a crucial role in meeting the increasing global demand for seafood. In recent years, the top 20 aquaculture importers in the world have been key players in driving this growth. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the global aquaculture production reached 114.5 million tonnes in 2020, with a total export value of $160 billion.

Top 20 Aquaculture Importers in the World:

1. United States
The United States is one of the top aquaculture importers in the world, with a market share of 9%. The country imports a wide variety of seafood products from countries such as China, Canada, and Vietnam.

2. Japan
Japan is another major player in the aquaculture import market, with a market share of 7%. The country is known for its high demand for premium seafood products such as tuna, salmon, and shrimp.

3. China
China is not only the largest producer of aquaculture products but also one of the top importers. The country imports a significant amount of seafood to meet its domestic demand.

4. European Union
The European Union is a key player in the global aquaculture import market, with a market share of 6%. Countries such as Spain, France, and Italy are among the top importers within the EU.

5. South Korea
South Korea has emerged as a major importer of aquaculture products in recent years, with a market share of 5%. The country imports a variety of seafood products, including fish, shellfish, and seaweed.

6. Russia
Russia is a significant importer of aquaculture products, with a market share of 4%. The country imports seafood from various countries, including Norway, China, and Vietnam.

7. Canada
Canada is a major importer of aquaculture products, with a market share of 3%. The country imports a variety of seafood products such as salmon, lobster, and scallops.

8. Australia
Australia is another key player in the aquaculture import market, with a market share of 2%. The country imports a wide range of seafood products to meet its domestic demand.

9. Brazil
Brazil has seen a significant increase in aquaculture imports in recent years, with a market share of 2%. The country imports seafood products from countries such as Chile, Ecuador, and Norway.

10. Thailand
Thailand is a major importer of aquaculture products, with a market share of 2%. The country imports a variety of seafood products, including shrimp, fish, and squid.

11. Vietnam
Vietnam has emerged as a key player in the global aquaculture market, with a market share of 1%. The country imports a significant amount of seafood products to meet its domestic demand.

12. Malaysia
Malaysia is a growing importer of aquaculture products, with a market share of 1%. The country imports seafood products from countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, and China.

13. Chile
Chile is a major importer of aquaculture products, with a market share of 1%. The country imports a variety of seafood products, including salmon, mussels, and sea bass.

14. Indonesia
Indonesia has seen a steady increase in aquaculture imports, with a market share of 1%. The country imports seafood products from countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, and China.

15. Mexico
Mexico is a significant importer of aquaculture products, with a market share of 1%. The country imports a variety of seafood products such as shrimp, tuna, and octopus.

16. Norway
Norway is a major importer of aquaculture products, with a market share of 1%. The country imports seafood products from countries such as Iceland, Scotland, and the Faroe Islands.

17. Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has seen a significant increase in aquaculture imports in recent years, with a market share of 1%. The country imports seafood products from countries such as India, Pakistan, and Oman.

18. Singapore
Singapore is a key player in the aquaculture import market, with a market share of 1%. The country imports a variety of seafood products to meet its domestic demand.

19. Philippines
The Philippines is a growing importer of aquaculture products, with a market share of 1%. The country imports seafood products from countries such as Taiwan, Vietnam, and Indonesia.

20. United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates is a significant importer of aquaculture products, with a market share of 1%. The country imports seafood products from countries such as Oman, India, and Pakistan.

Insights:

The global aquaculture import market is expected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by increasing demand for seafood products. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global aquaculture market is projected to reach $303.6 billion by 2028, with a CAGR of 5.6% from 2021 to 2028. As consumers become more health-conscious and aware of the environmental impact of traditional fishing practices, aquaculture is poised to play a key role in meeting the growing demand for sustainable seafood. Additionally, technological advancements in aquaculture production and supply chain management are expected to further drive the growth of the global aquaculture import market.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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