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Global Tilapia Industry Outlook: Moderate Growth and Shifting Market Dynamics

WORLDWIDE
Thursday, May 08, 2025, 03:40 (GMT + 9)

Asia Leads Production While Indonesia Emerges as a Key Challenger to China

In 2024, global tilapia production is projected to reach approximately 7 million tonnes, according to Ms. Thu Hang, Editor at the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), citing data from Rabobank.

Asia remains the dominant force in the tilapia industry, producing over 4.7 million tonnes, which accounts for more than 67% of global output. Africa follows with an 18% share (approximately 1.2 million tonnes), while the Americas contribute 11% (around 800,000 tonnes). The remaining 4%—nearly 300,000 tonnes—comes from other regions.

From 2010 to 2022, the global tilapia sector maintained an average annual growth rate exceeding 5%. Looking ahead, the 2023–2025 forecast suggests a moderate growth rate of 4–6%.

China remains the world’s leading producer and the “capital” of global tilapia farming. However, Indonesia is quickly gaining ground, with a growth trajectory positioning it as China’s strongest emerging competitor. Egypt rounds out the top three producers, with consistently stable production in recent years.

On the consumption side, the United States is the largest global consumer of tilapia, with a strong preference for affordable frozen fillets. Its main suppliers include China, Indonesia, and Brazil.

The European Union is the second-largest market, demanding compliance with stringent import standards such as ASC and Global GAP certifications. Indonesia and Vietnam are key suppliers to this high-standard market, highlighting the premium quality required to compete in the EU.

Beyond these major markets, the Middle East, South Korea, and Japan also represent important destinations for tilapia exports. These regions tend to favor a more diverse product mix, beyond just frozen fillets.

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