Aquaculture Exporting Countries by Export Value and Key Exported Species

 

Aquaculture: A Pillar of Global Seafood Trade

Aquaculture, the farming of aquatic organisms such as fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and aquatic plants, has emerged as a critical sector in the global food system. 

As wild-caught fisheries face increasing pressures from overfishing and environmental concerns, aquaculture provides a sustainable and reliable source of high-quality protein and other valuable products. The industry's growth is reflected in its significant contribution to international trade, with several nations leading the world in export value.

The global aquaculture market is dominated by a few key players, primarily located in Asia and Europe. These countries leverage their extensive coastlines, advanced technologies, and established supply chains to meet the growing global demand for seafood.

Top Aquaculture Exporting Countries by Export Value

Based on recent data, here is a breakdown of the top countries in aquaculture exports by value. It is important to note that these figures can fluctuate annually due to market conditions, production volumes, and species prices.

Rank	Country	Estimated Export Value (USD Billions)	Key Exported Species
1	China	$20.2	Various fish, shrimp, crustaceans, mollusks
2	Norway	$16.0	Atlantic salmon, trout
3	Ecuador	$9.2	Whiteleg shrimp, tuna, octopus
4	Vietnam	$8.3	Pangasius (catfish), giant tiger prawn, shrimp
5	Chile	$7.8	Atlantic salmon, coho salmon, mussels
6	India	$7.2	Frozen shrimp, fish, crustaceans
7	Canada	$6.5	Lobster, snow crab, Pacific salmon
8	Netherlands	$5.9	Cold water shrimp, frozen herring
9	Thailand	$5.6	Shrimp, tuna
10	Indonesia	$5.1	Shrimp, frozen fish, fresh fish

The Aquaculture Export Market Share Percentage

Based on the most recent data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the global market share for aquatic product exports, which includes both wild-caught and farmed seafood, can be broken down to 100%.

Here is a table showing the market share percentage for the top exporting countries and the combined share of all other nations.

Rank	Country	Market Share (%)
1	China	11.8%
2	Norway	9.3%
3	Ecuador	5.4%
4	Vietnam	4.9%
5	Chile	4.6%
6	India	4.2%
7	Canada	3.8%
8	Netherlands	3.4%
9	Thailand	3.3%
10	Spain	3.2%
-	Rest of the World	46.2%
Total		100%

China: China stands as the undisputed leader in both aquaculture production and export value. The country's vast and diverse aquaculture sector produces a wide range of species for both domestic consumption and international markets.

Norway: As a pioneer in modern salmon farming, Norway has secured its position as the world's leading exporter of Atlantic salmon. Its cold, clean waters and advanced farming practices are central to its success.

Ecuador: Ecuador has rapidly climbed the ranks, primarily driven by its powerhouse whiteleg shrimp industry. The country's strategic port and efficient supply chain have made it a major global supplier of shrimp.

Vietnam: The Mekong Delta region in Vietnam is a highly productive aquaculture zone, making the country a major exporter of farmed fish, particularly pangasius, and various shrimp species.

Chile: Chile's extensive coastline and favorable conditions have made it a major producer and exporter of farmed salmon, second only to Norway in global production.

This list highlights the vital role of aquaculture in supporting global food security and economic development. As demand for seafood continues to rise, these countries and others will play a crucial part in meeting that demand through sustainable and innovative farming practices.

Aquaculture Export Value and Key Species in China

China is the world's largest producer of aquatic products, with aquaculture accounting for the vast majority of its total output. This massive production capacity has positioned the country as a dominant force in the global seafood trade. China's aquaculture exports are a significant component of its overall fishery economy, playing a crucial role in international markets.

According to data from the General Administration of Customs, China's aquatic product exports reached a total value of $20.74 billion in 2024, representing a 1.35% increase from the previous year. This performance highlights the country's continued strength in the seafood export sector, even amidst global economic fluctuations.

While China is a major exporter, it is also a key importer of aquatic products, often to be processed and then re-exported. This dual role underscores the complexity and sophistication of its seafood industry, which relies heavily on value-added processing.

Key Exported Species

China's aquaculture industry is incredibly diverse, with a wide range of species being farmed for both domestic consumption and export. While carps have traditionally been the backbone of freshwater aquaculture, the country's export profile is dominated by high-value species and processed products. The following table provides a snapshot of some of the key species and product groups that form the core of China's aquaculture exports.

Table: Key Aquaculture Species Exported from China

Species/Product Group	Notes on Export and Production
Shrimp and Prawns	A major export commodity. The Pacific whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) is the dominant species farmed, accounting for more than 80% of total marine shrimp aquaculture production.
Tilapia	Widely farmed and a significant export, particularly to the United States and other markets. Tilapia is a cornerstone of China's export-oriented aquaculture.
Cephalopods (Squid, Cuttlefish, Octopus)	A major export group, often from both wild-caught and farmed sources. China's processing industry adds significant value to these products before export.
Flatfish (Turbot, Flounder, Sole)	China is a global leader in flatfish aquaculture, with an annual output of over 110,000 tons. These high-value species are popular in East Asian markets like Japan and South Korea.
Eel	Cultured eel, particularly the Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica), is a significant export product with strong demand in various international markets.
Shellfish (Scallops, Abalone, Oysters)	A wide variety of shellfish are farmed in China and exported. The country is a major global producer and exporter of scallops and other mollusks.
Seaweed (e.g., Kelp)	China is a major producer and exporter of seaweed and seaweed products, which are used for both food and industrial purposes.
Value-Added Whitefish Products	While not a top aquaculture species, China imports massive quantities of wild-caught fish like Alaska pollock and cod from countries like Russia and Norway to process them into fillets and other value-added products for re-export.

China's top export markets for aquatic products have historically been Japan, the United States, and the Republic of Korea. However, the country has a vast network of trade relationships, exporting to over 170 countries and territories. The continued growth and diversification of its aquaculture sector, combined with its advanced processing capabilities, solidify China's position as a global leader in the seafood export market.

Aquaculture Export Value and Key Species in Norway

Norway stands as a global powerhouse in the aquaculture industry, renowned for its sustainable practices and a near-monopoly on a single, highly valuable species: Atlantic salmon. The country's long, cold coastline and deep fjords provide ideal conditions for marine farming, positioning Norway as the world's leading producer and exporter of farmed fish.

According to data from the Norwegian Seafood Council, Norway's seafood export value reached a new record of NOK 175.4 billion in 2024, a 2% increase from the previous year. This historic performance was driven by a combination of high production volumes and favorable market conditions. The aquaculture sector was a primary engine of this growth, accounting for over 74% of the total seafood export value, or NOK 130.6 billion. While this growth in Norwegian Krone was partly influenced by currency effects, it solidified the country's dominance in the global seafood trade.

Despite facing biological challenges like sea lice and rising costs, the industry continues to thrive, driven by its focus on innovation, research, and sustainability. The Norwegian Seafood Council notes that exports from aquaculture in 2024 increased in volume by 3.4% and in value by 2% compared to 2023.

Key Exported Species

While Norway exports a wide range of seafood, its aquaculture export profile is overwhelmingly dominated by a few key species. The following table highlights the most significant farmed species and their role in the country's export economy.

Table: Key Aquaculture Species Exported from Norway

Species/Product Group	Notes on Export and Production
Atlantic Salmon	The undisputed king of Norway's seafood exports. In 2024, salmon accounted for a record NOK 122.9 billion in export value, making up over 70% of the country's total seafood exports. Norway's salmon is prized globally and is a cornerstone of the country's economy.
Trout	Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) is the second most important aquaculture species. In 2024, Norway exported a record volume of trout, reaching a value of NOK 6.8 billion, a 23% increase from the previous year. It is a high-value species with growing demand.
Farmed Cod	While wild-caught cod has faced challenges from quota reductions, farmed cod is a rapidly growing sector. In 2024, farmed cod exports saw a significant increase in both volume and value, accounting for a record high share of the fresh cod market.
Halibut	Farmed halibut is a high-value species with a smaller, but growing, market presence. As production methods improve, it is a promising area for diversification within the Norwegian aquaculture industry.
Mussels	Norway also farms blue mussels (Mytilus edulis), but they represent a very small portion of the country's total aquaculture export value compared to salmon and trout.

Norway's aquaculture success is built on specialization. Its strategy is laser-focused on one high-value, high-demand species: Atlantic salmon. The country's unique geographical advantages and pioneering work in marine cage farming have made it the undisputed global leader in farmed salmon production and export. While Norway is diversifying into species like trout and farmed cod, its economic dominance in the seafood sector remains overwhelmingly tied to its world-class salmon industry. This specialization allows it to command premium prices and a strong brand reputation worldwide.

Aquaculture Export Value and Key Species in Ecuador

Ecuador has emerged as a global leader in aquaculture, with its economy heavily reliant on a single, high-value commodity: shrimp. The country's ideal coastal conditions, particularly in the Gulf of Guayaquil, and its long-standing expertise in shrimp farming have positioned it as the world's largest producer and exporter of farmed shrimp, surpassing even traditional powerhouses like China and India.

In 2024, Ecuador's total seafood and fisheries exports were valued at approximately USD 9.2 billion, representing a 2% increase from the previous year, despite facing a period of lower global shrimp prices. The aquaculture sector, and specifically shrimp, drives the majority of this value, solidifying its position as the country's primary non-oil export product. While the total export value saw a slight dip from its peak in 2022 and 2023, the industry's resilience was demonstrated by its ability to maintain stable export volumes and a strategic shift toward new markets to offset challenges in key regions.

The country's success is a testament to its efficient production systems, robust supply chain, and proactive diversification efforts in the face of market volatility and external challenges such as El Niño weather patterns and logistical costs.

Key Exported Species

Ecuador's aquaculture export profile is almost entirely defined by one species. The following table illustrates the dominance of shrimp and the minor, but growing, presence of other farmed species.

Table: Key Aquaculture Species Exported from Ecuador

Species/Product Group	Notes on Export and Production
Shrimp (Whiteleg Shrimp)	The undisputed foundation of Ecuador's aquaculture industry. Whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) accounts for over 95% of the country's aquaculture output. In 2024, Ecuador exported approximately 1.2 million metric tons of shrimp. While China remains the largest market, accounting for a significant share of exports, the industry has successfully diversified into the United States and the European Union, which saw increased demand in 2024.
Tilapia	Tilapia farming has been gaining momentum, often utilizing repurposed shrimp ponds. While it represents a very small fraction of the total export value compared to shrimp, tilapia is a complementary product, primarily exported to the United States.
Trout and Other Species	Small-scale aquaculture of species such as rainbow trout is present in the inter-Andean region, and some other freshwater fish like catfish are also farmed. However, these are mainly for local consumption and do not contribute significantly to the country's export value.

Ecuador's aquaculture industry presents a unique and compelling case of a nation building its economic success on the foundation of a single commodity. The country has leveraged its environmental advantages and advanced farming techniques to become the global leader in farmed shrimp. The shrimp industry's ability to maintain high export volumes and successfully pivot to new markets amidst changing global demand and pricing challenges underscores its resilience and strategic foresight. While other species like tilapia are being cultivated, they serve to complement rather than compete with the colossal shrimp sector. The future of Ecuador's aquaculture exports is inextricably linked to the continued growth and stability of its shrimp industry, a sector that has demonstrated its ability to adapt and thrive on the international stage.

Aquaculture Export Value and Key Species in Vietnam

Vietnam has solidified its position as a major global player in the seafood industry, with aquaculture serving as a cornerstone of its economy and a key driver of its export success. The country's extensive network of rivers, coastal areas, and the Mekong Delta provides an ideal environment for the large-scale farming of high-demand aquatic species. While it exports a variety of seafood, its aquaculture exports are dominated by two globally significant products: shrimp and Pangasius.

In 2024, Vietnam's total seafood exports were estimated to have reached a record high of over USD 10 billion, a significant increase from the previous year. This growth signals a strong recovery in demand from key markets, despite ongoing global economic challenges. The aquaculture sector was the primary contributor to this achievement, demonstrating the resilience and adaptability of the country's farming and processing industries.

The Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) reports that this positive performance was largely due to a recovery in demand from its major trading partners, particularly the United States and China. The country's focus on value-added processing and diversification of its export markets has been crucial to its continued success.

Key Exported Species

Vietnam's aquaculture export profile is characterized by the dominance of two main species, along with a growing presence of other high-value products. The following table highlights the most significant farmed species and their contribution to the country's export economy.

Table: Key Aquaculture Species Exported from Vietnam

Species/Product Group	Notes on Export and Production
Shrimp	A leading export commodity, primarily consisting of whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) and black tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon). In 2024, shrimp exports reached approximately USD 4 billion, marking a significant rebound from the previous year. Vietnam is a major competitor to Ecuador and India, particularly in the market for processed and value-added shrimp products. Key markets include the U.S., China, Japan, and the E.U.
Pangasius	Also known as tra or basa fish, Pangasius (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) is a freshwater catfish that is a staple of Vietnam's aquaculture exports. Exports of this fish were valued at around USD 2 billion in 2024. Its competitive price and versatility have made it popular in markets such as China, the U.S., and the E.U. The Mekong Delta is the primary region for its production.
Tilapia	While not on the same scale as shrimp or Pangasius exports, tilapia farming has been increasing, with exports primarily targeting the U.S. market. The species is gaining a foothold as a complementary product in the global whitefish market.
Other Marine Species	A variety of other farmed species contribute to Vietnam's export portfolio, including mollusks (mussels, clams), marine fish (such as grouper), and crustaceans. These species represent a smaller, but growing, component of the export value, often sold as high-value, niche products.

Vietnam's aquaculture sector has proven its dynamism and resilience by achieving impressive export growth in 2024. This success is primarily built on the dual pillars of its large-scale shrimp and Pangasius industries, which together account for a significant portion of its total seafood export value. The country's strategic focus on diversifying its export markets and moving up the value chain through processing has enabled it to overcome global economic headwinds and intense competition from rivals like Ecuador and India. As Vietnam continues to invest in sustainable farming practices and high-tech models, it is poised to strengthen its position as a reliable and competitive supplier in the global seafood market.

Aquaculture Export Value and Key Species in Chile

Chile is a global leader in aquaculture, second only to Norway in the production of farmed salmon. Its extensive coastline, cold ocean currents, and numerous fjords in the southern regions provide an ideal environment for marine fish farming. The aquaculture sector has become a cornerstone of the Chilean economy, playing a crucial role in its export portfolio.

In 2024, Chile's total seafood and fisheries exports were valued at approximately USD 6.5 billion. The aquaculture industry was the primary driver of this success, accounting for the vast majority of the total export value. This performance highlights the sector's resilience and its ability to maintain strong international demand, despite facing biological and environmental challenges.

Chile's aquaculture industry is highly concentrated in the southern regions of Los Lagos, Aysén, and Magallanes. The focus on high-value species and a strong emphasis on processing and innovation have allowed the country to carve out a significant share of the global market.

Key Exported Species

Chile's aquaculture export profile is dominated by a few key species, with salmon being the overwhelming leader. The following table details the most significant farmed species and their contribution to the country's export economy.

Table: Key Aquaculture Species Exported from Chile

Species/Product Group	Notes on Export and Production
Atlantic Salmon	The undisputed champion of Chile's aquaculture exports. It is the country's main farmed species, with a massive production volume. In 2024, Atlantic salmon exports reached a value of over USD 5.1 billion, representing the largest share of the country's seafood exports. Its main markets are the United States, Japan, and Brazil.
Coho Salmon	A significant contributor to the country's export value, Chile is the world's largest producer of farmed coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch). Coho salmon exports are particularly popular in the Japanese market, where they are used for sushi and other fresh seafood preparations.
Trout	Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) is another key species. While its production volume is much smaller than that of Atlantic salmon, trout exports are an important component of the country's aquaculture portfolio, with strong demand from markets in Russia and the United States.
Mussels	Chile is a major global producer and exporter of mussels (Mytilus chilensis). The industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, with mussel exports reaching new highs. The European Union, particularly Spain, is a primary destination for these products.
Scallops	Farmed scallops are a smaller but valuable part of Chile's aquaculture exports, with a focus on high-end markets.

Chile's aquaculture industry has solidified its place as a global leader through its strong focus on high-value species, particularly salmon. The country's unique geographical advantages and advanced farming techniques have enabled it to become the world's second-largest producer of farmed salmon, with a strong presence in key international markets. While Atlantic salmon remains the cornerstone of its export economy, the growing production of coho salmon, trout, and mussels demonstrates a strategic effort to diversify its product mix. This diversification helps to mitigate risks associated with a single-species focus and ensures the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of Chile's vital aquaculture sector on the global stage.

Technology's Role in Boosting Aquaculture Exports

Technology is at the forefront of driving growth and sustainability in the global aquaculture export market. The latest innovations are focused on enhancing productivity, ensuring product quality and safety, and improving environmental performance. These technological advancements are critical for meeting the increasing global demand for seafood, while also addressing challenges like disease outbreaks, climate change, and resource management. The integration of advanced systems and data-driven approaches is a key trend in 2025, enabling exporters to maintain a competitive edge.

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Key Technologies Increasing Aquaculture Exports

The most impactful technologies in the aquaculture export sector can be categorized into three main areas: on-farm production systems, data and automation, and supply chain management.

• Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS): This technology is a game-changer for land-based aquaculture. RAS facilities are closed-loop systems that filter and reuse up to 99% of their water. This allows for controlled, high-density farming in locations away from natural water bodies, including urban areas. RAS enhances biosecurity, drastically reduces water usage, and minimizes environmental impact, making it ideal for high-value species like salmon and trout. For exporters, RAS ensures consistent, year-round production, which is crucial for meeting international market demands.

• Precision Aquaculture and AI: This field uses data from sensors, cameras, and drones to optimize farm operations. AI algorithms analyze real-time data on water quality (dissolved oxygen, pH, salinity), fish behavior, and biomass. This helps farmers make data-driven decisions on feeding schedules to reduce waste and lower costs. AI is also being used to predict disease outbreaks and monitor fish health, which is essential for ensuring a healthy stock for export.

• Automated Systems and Robotics: Robotics and automation are being implemented to handle labor-intensive tasks. This includes automated feeders that adjust food distribution based on fish activity, robotic harvesters that sort fish by size, and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) that inspect nets and cages in offshore farms. These technologies improve efficiency, reduce labor costs, and minimize stress on the fish, which ultimately leads to a better quality product for export.

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Technologies and Their Impact on Export Value

The following table details how specific technologies are directly contributing to an increase in aquaculture export value and volume.

Technology	How it Supports Export Growth	Impact on Export Value & Volume
Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS)	Enables production closer to markets, reduces transport costs, and provides consistent, year-round supply for reliable trade agreements.	Increases export volume by allowing production in non-traditional areas, and enhances product value through higher quality and year-round availability.
Precision Aquaculture (Sensors, IoT, AI)	Optimizes feed conversion, improves water quality, and enables early disease detection, resulting in higher survival rates and faster growth.	Increases export volume by improving yield and reduces production costs, which can be passed on to the buyer or lead to higher profit margins.
Alternative Feeds & Nutrition	Reduces reliance on wild-caught fishmeal by using insect-based proteins or microalgae, addressing sustainability concerns from international buyers.	Enhances product value by meeting sustainability standards and certifications (e.g., ASC), which are increasingly demanded in major markets like the EU and the U.S.
Genomics & Selective Breeding	Develops genetically superior stocks that are more disease-resistant and grow faster, increasing overall productivity.	Boosts export volume by improving farm yields and reduces economic losses from disease, ensuring a stable supply.
Blockchain Technology	Creates a secure, immutable ledger for tracking seafood from the farm to the final consumer, ensuring transparency and authenticity.	Increases product value and consumer trust, a key factor in markets with high food safety and traceability standards.

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Conclusion

The aquaculture export sector is undergoing a profound technological transformation. The adoption of advanced systems like RAS, combined with the precision of AI and automation, is fundamentally changing how seafood is farmed and traded. These innovations are not only improving efficiency and reducing costs but are also addressing critical issues of sustainability, biosecurity, and traceability. For exporting nations, investing in these technologies is no longer an option but a necessity to remain competitive in a market that increasingly values consistency, quality, and environmental responsibility.