Fresh Seafood - Costa Rica

Costa Rica

Highlights

Revenue in the Fresh Seafood market amounts to US$118.50m in 2024. The market is expected to grow annually by 7.10% (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$22.58 are generated in 2024.
In the Fresh Seafood market, volume is expected to amount to 4.18m kg by 2029. The Fresh Seafood market is expected to show a volume growth of 5.9% 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 Costa Rica is facing subdued growth due to factors such as limited supply, high import costs, and competition from other food markets. Despite this, increasing demand for fresh and sustainable seafood is driving slow but steady growth in the market.

Customer preferences: Consumer demand for sustainable and ethically sourced seafood has been on the rise in Costa Rica, as consumers become more aware of the environmental impact of their food choices. This has led to a shift towards locally sourced and responsibly caught seafood, as well as a preference for certified sustainable seafood options. Additionally, there has been a growing interest in traditional fishing methods and supporting local fishermen, as consumers seek to connect with their cultural heritage and support their local communities. This trend is expected to continue as consumers become more conscious of their impact on the environment and seek out more sustainable options in their seafood purchases.

Trends in the market: In Costa Rica, the Fresh Seafood Market of the Fish & Seafood Market within The Food market is seeing a rise in demand for sustainably sourced seafood, driven by consumer awareness and government regulations. This trend is expected to continue, with a focus on eco-friendly fishing practices and certifications. For industry stakeholders, this presents an opportunity to differentiate their products and tap into the growing market for environmentally conscious consumers. Additionally, there is a shift towards online sales and delivery services, as consumers seek convenience and safety amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This trend is expected to shape the future of the market, with increased investments in technology and infrastructure.

Local special circumstances: In Costa Rica, the Fresh Seafood Market of the Fish & Seafood Market within The Food market is heavily influenced by the country's geographic location. Being a coastal nation, seafood is a staple in the local diet and is readily available. This has also led to the development of sustainable fishing practices, making Costa Rica a leader in eco-friendly seafood production. Additionally, the country's tourism industry has created a demand for fresh seafood, leading to the growth of small-scale fisheries and seafood markets. Regulations promoting sustainable fishing practices have also played a key role in shaping the market dynamics in Costa Rica.

Underlying macroeconomic factors: The growth of the Fresh Seafood market within the Fish & Seafood market is heavily influenced by macroeconomic factors, such as global economic trends, national economic health, fiscal policies, and other relevant financial indicators. Countries with stable and growing economies, as well as strong investment in the seafood industry, are experiencing higher market growth compared to regions with economic instability and limited investment. Additionally, factors such as consumer preferences and purchasing power, as well as shifts in demand for healthier food options, can also impact the performance of the Fresh Seafood market. Furthermore, macroeconomic factors such as trade policies and agreements, environmental regulations, and technological advancements in fishing and aquaculture can also greatly influence the supply and accessibility of fresh seafood in the market.

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.