Fresh Fish - Central America

Central America

Highlights

Revenue in the Fresh Fish market amounts to US$3.27bn in 2024. The market is expected to grow annually by 5.28% (CAGR 2024-2029).
In global comparison, most revenue is generated China (US$57bn in 2024).
In relation to total population figures, per person revenues of US$61.90 are generated in 2024.
In the Fresh Fish market, volume is expected to amount to 186.20m kg by 2029. The Fresh Fish market is expected to show a volume growth of 4.1% in 2025.0.
The average volume per person in the Fresh Fish market is expected to amount to 3.2kg in 2024.

Key regions:

Market definitionIn-Scope/Out-of-scopeMarket structureMethodology

The Fresh Fish Market in Central America is experiencing minimal growth due to various factors such as limited access to technology and low health awareness among consumers. Despite the convenience of online services, the market is struggling to keep up with the global trend.

Customer preferences: Consumers in Central America are showing an increased preference for sustainably sourced and locally caught fresh fish, reflecting a growing awareness of the environmental impact of the seafood industry. This trend is further driven by the region's rich fishing culture and strong emphasis on traditional, fresh ingredients in their cuisine. Furthermore, with a rising focus on health and wellness, there is a growing demand for organic and natural seafood options, as well as a shift towards low-mercury fish varieties.

Trends in the market: In Central America, the Fresh Fish Market within the Fish & Seafood Market is experiencing a surge in demand for sustainable and ethically sourced seafood. This trend is being driven by consumers' increasing awareness of the environmental impact of their food choices. To meet this demand, suppliers are implementing sustainable fishing practices, such as responsible sourcing and traceability measures. This trend is expected to continue on an upward trajectory, with potential implications for industry stakeholders, including a need for increased transparency and supply chain management. Additionally, there is a growing interest in locally sourced fish and seafood, as consumers prioritize supporting their local economies and reducing their carbon footprint. This could lead to a shift in the market towards more regional and artisanal products.

Local special circumstances: In Central America, the Fresh Fish Market of the Fish & Seafood Market within The Food market is heavily influenced by the region's abundant coastline and diverse marine resources. This has led to a thriving seafood industry, with local fishermen and small-scale seafood businesses playing a significant role in the market. Additionally, the cultural preference for fresh seafood in Central American cuisine has also contributed to the growth of the market. However, regulatory challenges such as strict fishing quotas and environmental concerns have posed challenges for the industry, requiring innovative solutions to ensure sustainable growth.

Underlying macroeconomic factors: The growth of the Fresh Fish Market of the Fish & Seafood Market within The Food market is heavily influenced by macroeconomic factors such as global economic trends, national economic health, and fiscal policies. Countries with strong economic growth and stable political environments are experiencing higher demand for fresh fish products, while those with economic challenges and political instability may see slower market growth. Additionally, government policies and regulations related to fishing and seafood production can also impact market performance. Furthermore, consumer purchasing power and disposable income play a crucial role in driving demand for premium and sustainable fish options.

Data coverage:

The data encompasses B2C enterprises. Figures are based on the total consumer spending on food, which comprises all private household spending on food that is meant for at-home consumption (out-of-home consumption is not accounted for).

Modeling approach:

Market sizes are determined through a top-down approach, building on specific predefined factors for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use resources from the Statista platform as well as in-house market research, national statistical offices, international institutions, trade associations, companies, the trade press, and the experience of our analysts. In addition, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as GDP, consumer spending, and consumer price index. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

Forecasts:

In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, the exponential trend smoothing is well suited for forecasting the Food market with a projected steady growth. The main drivers are GDP per capita and consumer spending per capita.

Additional notes:

The data is modeled using current exchange rates. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. The market is updated twice a year.