Fresh Seafood - Central America

Central America

Highlights

Revenue in the Fresh Seafood market amounts to US$1.11bn in 2024. The market is expected to grow annually by 7.54% (CAGR 2024-2029).
In global comparison, most revenue is generated United States (US$12bn in 2024).
In relation to total population figures, per person revenues of US$21.10 are generated in 2024.
In the Fresh Seafood market, volume is expected to amount to 43.75m kg by 2029. The Fresh Seafood market is expected to show a volume growth of 6.3% in 2025.0.
The average volume per person in the Fresh Seafood market is expected to amount to 0.7kg in 2024.

Key regions:

Market definitionIn-Scope/Out-of-scopeMarket structureMethodology

The Fresh Seafood Market in Central America has been experiencing moderate growth due to a combination of factors, including a shift towards healthier eating habits, increasing demand for sustainable seafood, and the convenience of online seafood purchasing. However, subdued growth is being impacted by challenges such as overfishing and environmental concerns.

Customer preferences: With the growing popularity of a healthy and sustainable diet, consumers in Central America are increasingly seeking fresh and locally-sourced seafood options. This trend is also influenced by cultural preferences for seafood-based dishes and the growing awareness of the health benefits of seafood. In addition, the rise in disposable income and changing demographics, such as an aging population, are driving the demand for premium and high-quality seafood products. This has led to a shift towards online shopping and home delivery services for fresh seafood, as consumers look for convenient and safe ways to access their preferred seafood options.

Trends in the market: In Central America, the Fresh Seafood Market of the Fish & Seafood Market within The Food market is experiencing a surge in demand for sustainably-sourced seafood. This trend is driven by consumer awareness and concern for the environment, leading to an increase in products with eco-labels and certifications. Additionally, there is a growing interest in locally-sourced seafood, with restaurants and retailers promoting the use of regional products. These trends are significant for industry stakeholders as they highlight the importance of sustainability and ethically-sourced seafood. They also present opportunities for market growth and differentiation through eco-friendly practices. However, they also pose challenges for smaller businesses and traditional practices, as meeting these standards can be costly and require significant changes in production and marketing strategies. As such, industry players must adapt to these trends and prioritize sustainability to stay competitive in the market.

Local special circumstances: In Central America, the Fresh Seafood Market of the Fish & Seafood Market within The Food market is heavily influenced by the region's abundant coastal access and rich seafood culture. The demand for fresh and locally sourced seafood has led to the development of small-scale fishing communities and sustainable fishing practices. Additionally, regulatory measures have been put in place to ensure the preservation of marine resources and protect the livelihoods of local fishermen. This unique blend of geographical, cultural, and regulatory factors sets the Central American Fresh Seafood Market apart from other markets, driving its growth and popularity amongst consumers.

Underlying macroeconomic factors: The Fresh Seafood Market of the Fish & Seafood Market within The Food market is significantly impacted by macroeconomic factors such as global economic trends, national economic health, fiscal policies, and other relevant financial indicators. Countries with stable economies and favorable regulatory environments are experiencing higher market growth compared to regions with economic instability and regulatory challenges. Additionally, increasing consumer demand for healthy and sustainable food options and the rising popularity of seafood-rich diets are driving the growth of the market in Central America. Moreover, the growing tourism industry in the region is also boosting the demand for fresh seafood, as tourists seek authentic and diverse culinary experiences.

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.