Squid Market Size - By Type, Category, Packaging, Distribution Channel, Analysis, Share, Growth Forecast, 2025- 2034

Squid Market Size

The global squid market size was valued at USD 12.2 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of over 3.8% from 2025 to 2034. With its versatility and unique flavor profile, squid has gained immense popularity, making it a sought-after seafood choice. Squid can be found in numerous forms within the market, from whole, fresh specimens to processed products such as calamari rings, squid steaks, and dried squid snacks.

Restaurants, both casual and fine dining establishments, often feature squid dishes on their menus, with calamari being a perennial favorite among appetizers. Additionally, the Asian market has a strong demand for dried and salted squid, which is a popular snack and beer accompaniment.
 

The market is supported by both wild-caught and farmed squid, with countries like China, Japan, and South Korea leading in production. Squid's sustainability, relatively short reproduction cycle, and adaptability to different fishing methods make it an attractive choice for both small-scale and industrial fisheries. As consumers increasingly seek healthier and more sustainable food options, the market continues to evolve, with a growing emphasis on responsible and eco-friendly sourcing, further securing its place as a seafood staple on global dinner plates.
 

Squid Market Trends

There is an increasing demand for convenience and ready-to-eat squid products. Consumers with busy lifestyles seek quick and easy meal solutions, leading to the growth of pre-packaged squid items, such as calamari rings and marinated squid salads. There's a notable expansion in value-added products within the market. Processors are developing innovative squid-based foods like snacks, sausages, and surimi, capitalizing on squid's versatility and unique texture. This diversification appeals to a broader range of consumers and culinary preferences.
 

The globalization of culinary tastes has also boosted the squid market. Squid, known for its adaptability to various cuisines, is increasingly featured in international dishes, contributing to its popularity worldwide. Technological advancements in fishing, processing, and distribution have improved efficiency and quality, reducing waste and costs. These innovations are instrumental in maintaining the industry's competitiveness while addressing sustainability concerns.
 

Squid Market Analysis

The global squid industry is witnessing significant growth driven by increasing consumer demand for seafood due to its high nutritional value and versatility in culinary applications. Key factors include the rising popularity of Mediterranean and Asian cuisines, advancements in cold-chain logistics, and the adoption of sustainable fishing practices. Major producers like China, Vietnam, and Thailand dominate the market, supported by strong export capabilities and technological advancements in processing.

Additionally, the growing appeal of exotic seafood in premium markets, coupled with innovations in packaging and distribution, has expanded market access across regions. Challenges such as overfishing and climate change impact supply, but initiatives in aquaculture and regulated fisheries are helping to stabilize growth. The market is characterized by a mix of global players and regional contributors catering to evolving consumer preferences.

Based on squid type, the squid market is segmented as cuttlefish, european squid, argentine shortfin squid, japanese flying squid & other. The cuttlefish segment dominates the market by generating USD 4.2 billion revenue in the year 2024. Cuttlefish, known for their unique flavor and tender texture, hold a significant portion of the market share, appealing to a diverse range of consumers.
 

European Squid, another prominent segment, is popular for its culinary versatility, making it a favorite choice among restaurants and households across Europe and beyond. Argentine Shortfin Squid, prized for its sweet and delicate taste, also commands a noteworthy market share, particularly in the South American and North American regions.
 

Based on category the squid market is segmented into fresh/ ambient squid, frozen squid, chilled squid. Others. The fresh/ ambient squid segment, hold a dominant market share of 39.3% in 2024. The fresh/ambient squid segment is the fastest-growing category in the market, driven by increasing consumer preference for high-quality, unprocessed seafood. The demand for fresh squid is fueled by its superior taste and texture, which are highly sought after in premium culinary applications, including Mediterranean, Japanese, and other Asian cuisines.
 

Growth is further supported by advancements in cold-chain logistics and efficient supply chains, ensuring the availability of fresh squid in urban and international markets. Rising health consciousness and the perception of fresh seafood as a more natural and sustainable option compared to processed varieties also contribute to its popularity. The segment’s rapid growth reflects the alignment of fresh squid offerings with evolving consumer expectations for quality and freshness.
 

Based on packaging, the cans segment, accounting for 49.3% of the squid market's packaging growth, is the fastest-growing category due to its convenience, extended shelf life, and ability to preserve the squid's nutritional value and flavor. Canned squid is increasingly popular among consumers seeking ready-to-eat or easy-to-cook seafood options, particularly in regions with limited access to fresh or frozen squid.
 

The durability and portability of canned packaging also make it a preferred choice for export markets and retail distribution. Furthermore, innovations in canning technologies, such as BPA-free coatings and eco-friendly materials, are driving consumer trust and boosting the segment's growth. This trend reflects a shift towards practical and long-lasting seafood solutions in the global market.
 

Based on distribution channels, the food retail segment, contributing to 57.8% of the squid market's distribution channel growth, is the fastest-growing category due to shifting consumer preferences toward at-home meal preparation and the rising availability of squid in supermarkets, hypermarkets, and online platforms. The segment benefits from increasing demand for packaged and portioned squid products, including fresh, frozen, and canned varieties, which cater to the convenience of retail shoppers.
 

Moreover, the expansion of e-commerce platforms offering seafood with doorstep delivery has significantly enhanced accessibility for consumers. The growth is also driven by the increasing popularity of ethnic cuisines and the health-conscious trend, encouraging more individuals to explore squid as a protein-rich, versatile option in their home-cooked meals.
 

The U.S. squid market size dominated around USD 1.4 billion in 2024, driven by increasing consumer demand for seafood as a healthy protein source, coupled with the rising popularity of Mediterranean and Asian cuisines that prominently feature squid dishes. Sustainable fishing practices along the U.S. coastline and advancements in cold-chain logistics have bolstered the domestic supply of fresh and frozen squid.
 

Additionally, growing interest in exotic and gourmet seafood products in retail and food service sectors has further expanded the market. The U.S. also benefits from its well-regulated fisheries, ensuring a consistent and high-quality squid supply for both local consumption and exports.
 

In North America, the squid market is experiencing growth due to a rising preference for sustainable seafood, reflecting the region's increasing awareness of environmental conservation. The popularity of squid as a versatile and nutrient-rich seafood option is bolstered by the expanding presence of ethnic cuisines, particularly in Canada and Mexico, which diversify market demand. Trade agreements and seafood import initiatives enable a steady influx of squid from global suppliers, complementing regional production.
 

Furthermore, innovations in processing and packaging technologies have enhanced product life, allowing squid to penetrate retail and online channels more effectively. Together, these factors position North America as a growing hub in the market.
 

Squid Market Share

The squid industry is driven by a combination of established players and regional contributors, with companies like Xiamen Taiseng and Qingdao Seaflying Food capitalizing on China's strong export and processing capabilities. Minh Khue, based in Vietnam, benefits from abundant local squid resources and a robust seafood export infrastructure. Thai Union, a global seafood leader, leverages its extensive distribution network and advanced processing technologies to tap into premium markets.
 

Lee Fishing, with its focus on sustainable practices, appeals to eco-conscious consumers, while smaller players and regional firms categorized as "Others" collectively contribute significantly to market growth through local supply chains and meeting diverse consumer preferences. Together, these companies shape the squid market's competitive and dynamic landscape.
 

Squid Market Companies

Major players operating in the squid industry are:

• Bigsams
• Freshkatch
• Holmes
• Holt
• Lee Fishing
• Minh Khue
• Pescanova
• Qingdao Seaflying Food
• Seafood Pride International
• Seaquest
• Thai Union
• Xiamen Taiseng
   

Squid Industry News

• In October 2023, Label Foundation, a pioneering Web 3.0 music platform, entered into a partnership with LG Electronics to introduce Tracks, an innovative Web3-based music streaming service. This groundbreaking collaboration marked the first instance where Web3 technology was seamlessly integrated with television platforms, thereby offering users with a unique & immersive music streaming experience.
   
• In March 2023, Universal Music Group entered a fresh collaboration with Deezer to foster a novel model music supporting streaming's ongoing growth. This partnership emphasizes recognizing the contributions of both artists and listeners, striving for a balanced approach that benefits all stakeholders involved in the streaming ecosystem.
   

This squid market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD Billion) & volume (Kilo Tons) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Type

• Cuttlefish
• European Squid
• Argentine Shortfin Squid
• Jumbo Flying Squid
• Japanese Flying Squid
• Others

Market, By Category

• Fresh/ ambient squid
• Frozen squid
• Chilled squid
• Others

Market, By Packaging

• Cans
• Trays
• Others

Market, By Distribution channel

• Food retail
  • Supermarket
  • Hypermarket
  • Specialty store
  • Others
• Food service

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • Australia 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico 
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa