Canned Tuna Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Species (Skipjack, Albacore, Yellowfin, Bigeye, and Others), By Type (Canned Light Tuna and Canned White Tuna), By Preservation Method (Water and Brine and Oil), By Shape (Flakes, Chunks, Fillets, and Others), By Distribution Channel (Foodservice and Retail {Supermarket/Hypermarket, Convenience Stores, Specialty Stores, and Online Retail}, and Regional Forecast, 2025 – 2032

The global canned tuna market size was valued at USD 28.92 billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 29.66 billion in 2025 to USD 36.52 billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.01% over the forecast period. Some of the prominent manufacturers include Bolton Group, Century Pacific Foods Inc., Grupo Albacore S.A., Bumble Bee Foods LLC , Thai Union Group Inc., and others

The market growth is mainly fueled by the increasing consumption of various packaged food products and beverages. Canned foods consist of various meats, fruits, vegetables, and fish, are precooked or ready to cook, providing convenience and easy consumption. The demand for convenience food products has spurred in recent years owing to busy lifestyles and the rise in the working population, which directly aids in the growth of this market.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Drivers

Rising Consumer Dependency on Ready-to-Cook and Ready-to-Eat Foods to Aid Market  Development

Consumers are highly dependent on ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat food products due to the convenience of cooking offered by them. The rise in the working women population and the less time spent on cooking have led to wide utilization of such products including canned foods & beverages. The millennial population is highly inclined toward such convenience food products as they are easy to prepare, offer good nutrition value, and save food preparation time. Many manufacturers are focusing on innovative product launches and certifications to provide consumers with quality products and to serve them better. For instance, in February 2019, Chicken of the Sea launched a new resealable, single-serve recyclable cup of wild-caught tuna to cater to the growing demand  for on-the-go food among millennials.

Expanding E-Commerce Channels to Boost Market Expansion

Growing e-commerce channels and the strengthening of the supply chain in the food industry have positively impacted the demand for such products. Online food purchasing platforms have grown in recent times as they have eased access to processed food products. The growing familiarity with the internet has paved new ways for e-commerce. The millennial population is highly tech-savvy and prefers to purchase their products from various online platforms due to convenient purchasing.

In recent years, many new malls and convenience stores have been established, drawing consumers’ attention. This has strengthened supply chains and increased the sales of tuna and other processed food products. Moreover, during situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic, when consumers avoided going to supermarkets and physical stores, sales of canned products through e-commerce channels grew significantly.

Market Restraint

Increasing Demand for Plant-based Food Products to Hinder Market Growth

Consumers demand for plant-based food products has hampered global canned tuna market growth. The mounting environmental and animal welfare concerns among consumers have influenced them to shift toward plant-based products. The growing vegan trend in developing economies has also contributed to the increased utilization of plant-based products. For instance, according to a report published by the World Economic Forum, China’s “free from meat” and “plant-based products” reached a value of approximately USD 12 billion in 2023. The increasing availability of various plant-based fish meat alternatives, which closely replicate the taste and flavor of traditional products, has also nudged consumers to opt for them. For instance, according to the Good Food Institute, the plant-based meat segment of the plant-based foods in the U.S. witnessed a sales growth of 45% in  2020.

Market Opportunities

Launch of Flavored Product to Offer Growth Opportunities

Product innovation is the key driver of success across industries, and the canned seafood market is no exception. Globally, the demand for flavored and innovative products is growing at a higher pace, prompting market players to capitalize on such opportunities to generate higher profits.

• For instance, in January 2020, Thai Union, a Thailand-based seafood producer, partnered with Pa Waen, a local chili paste firm, to introduce spicy tuna flakes in turmeric, pepper, and lemongrass flavors.

Experimental consumption is growing popularity among consumers, prompting manufacturers to explore innovative ways to present their products and expand their market presence.

• In January 2021, Thai Union, one of the leading manufacturers of processed tuna, partnered with After Yum, a food service provider, to launch a DIY spicy tuna salad in a can in supermarket stores. This packaged product consists of lime juice, chili, and other salad ingredients, which consumer can add as per their choice to create a customized meal. 

Market Challenge

Mislabelling of Canned Tuna Fish Products to Erode Consumer Confidence in Products

Mislabeing and adulteration are major challenges faced by the global population. Some producers add adulterants or mislabel their products and sell them in the market. With respect to such canned products, species adulteration and mislabelling are the main hurdles that erode consumer trust in the products. Pseudo-tuna species such as oriental bonito, kawakawa, bullet tuna, and frigate tuna are being used in place of legally recognized tuna species such as skipjack, albacore, and others. Thus, stringent regulatory guidelines need to be established to prevent adulteration of such products.

Market Trends

Growing Incorporation of High-Nutrition Foods in Daily Diets to Bolster Market Development

The growing emphasis on incorporating high-nutrition foods into daily diets to improve health has led to an increase in the consumption of tuna. Consumers are inclined toward such processed products as it is a rich and affordable source of protein and convenient to use. Tuna contains healthy fatty acids crucial for growth and development and is often recommended to pregnant and breastfeeding women to fulfill their nutritional requirements. The wide availability and the increased consumption of tuna play a vital role in boosting the market’s growth.

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Impact of COVID-19

The current situation of the market is expected to be affected due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. Since most of the countries went under lockdown in 2020 to stop the transmission of the virus, the availability of processed food products declined due to many production units being shut down. The loss of jobs and increased unemployment negatively affected the purchasing power of consumers across several countries, which in turn affected the sales performance of processed food products.

The rise in product prices and reduced stock of various food products in many emerging economies pose a threat to the market. However, the market is predicted to regain momentum as consumers rely on various packaged and canned food products due to their convenience and easy availability.

• For instance, Thai Union, one of the largest market players in the tuna industry, reported a revenue growth of 5.9% during the first nine months of 2020. The company also expressed optimism about decent sales growth in the coming years. Moreover, the hygiene benefits of canned goods, coupled with the wide consumption of packaged food products, is anticipated to boost market growth in the forthcoming years.

SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS

By Species

Skipjack Segment Holds Majority Market Share Owing to Wider Availability 

Based on species, the market is segmented into skipjack, albacore, yellowfin, bigeye, and others.

Among these species, skipjack accounts for the highest market share owing to the wide availability of such tuna species globally. The species is of high commercial importance and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical ocean water. Moreover, these tuna species grows rapidly, making its farming for commercial usage comparatively easier than other species.

Yellowfin tuna is another major tuna species which is used for the manufacturing of canned products. These tuna species have a strong meaty structure and flavor and can be used in a wide range of dishes.

Other tuna species used in canned form include albacore, bigeye tuna, and others. These species are rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, offering an affordable sources of protein for consumers.

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By Type

Canned Light Segment Dominates the Market Backed by Its Numerous Health Benefits

By type, the market is categorized into canned light and white tuna.

The canned light tuna segment holds the largest share in the market, owing to the numerous health benefits associated with this type of tuna. Light tuna is obtained from skipjack or yellowfin tuna and has a light tan or pink-colored flesh soft texture. It is more flavourful than white tuna, which makes it a desirable choice of fish meat. They are also a great source of essential nutrients such as omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, proteins, and vitamin D. Various food chains and restaurants are utilizing canned light tuna in many culinary dishes such as pasta and tuna casseroles to enhance the taste and flavor of the food. The storage and utility of canned light are easier, saving preparation time before cooking. The younger cohort often prefers foods incorporating exotic fish due to the improved taste, texture, and high nutritional value. Many manufacturers are engaging in the production of canned light tuna and expanding their production facilities due to the high demand.

On the other hand, the canned white tuna market is expected to witness significant growth in the foreseeable years, owing to its easy availability and low-calorie content. White tuna is obtained from albacore tuna, has a whitish appearance, and the meat is firmer compared to the light tuna. The canned white tuna helps fulfill the nutritional requirements of the body as it is rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins, and essential fatty acids.

By Preservation Method

Oil Segment Holds Major Market Share as it Enhances the Flavour Of The Products 

Based on the preservation method, the market is segregated into water and brine and oil.

Among these segments, oil is expected to account for the highest market share during the forecast period. Oil such as olive oil and sunflower oil is used in canning to add flavor and enhance the richness of the product. The inclusion of oil in canned products helps to keep them soft and tender.

Water and brine is another major preservation method used in canned seafood products. The use of water helps maintain the original flavor of the tuna while also reducing the calorie content of the packaged products.

By Shape

Chunks Segment Hold the Major Market Share owing to its Appealing Size 

Based on shape, the market is segmented into flakes, chunks, fillets, and others.

Among these shapes, chunk is set to account for the highest share during the forecast period. These shapes are popular among consumers owing to their huge size and visual appeal. Chunked tuna is suitable for making sandwiches, salads, and wraps, making it more widely used compared to other shapes.

Tuna shreds are also used one of the major forms of products and are used for preparing a wide range of products, which include past, snacks, wraps, salads and others.

Other shapes in which these products are available in the market include fillet, paste, and others.

By Distribution Channel

Retail Segment Dominate the Market Owing to its Affordability

Based on distribution channels, the market is divided into foodservice and retail {supermarket/hypermarket, convenience stores, specialty stores, and online retail}.

The retail channels account for the highest market share owing to increased affordability and wider product availability in canned format. Supermarkets/hypermarkets are the preferred channels for purchasing essential and non-essential products due to the wide range of products available under a single roof. The presence of product-distinct aisles and various bundling schemes of tuna offered by the mass merchandisers enhance consumers' purchasing experience. Along with this, these outlets offer convenient purchasing options, as various tuna products are available in different brands and price ranges. The rapid urbanization and changing lifestyles have led to many new mass merchandisers being established, drawing consumers' attention. The emergence of allergen-free and gluten-free bakery products has also created a positive impact on the market. Marketers are focusing on developing the modern trade and retailing sectors to provide a convenient and affordable shopping experience to consumers.

The specialty stores and e-commerce channels are also gaining popularity due to the wide exposure of consumers to various product purchasing platforms on the internet and in specialty retail outlets.

Online retail offers a diverse range of products from numerous brands at a discounted price range, along with the ease of doorstep delivery options, which is expected to boost the sales of the product through this channel.

The food service channel also uses such products as they have a longer shelf life, require limited preparation, and can be used to make dishes such as salads and sandwiches quickly and sell them to consumers.

CANNED TUNA MARKET REGIONAL OUTLOOK

Geographically, the global canned tuna market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa.

Europe

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The global market is experiencing an upward growth trend due to the extensive consumption of processed food products and beverages. Europe is expected to hold the largest canned tuna market share due to the growing demand for ready-to-eat seafood from the millennial population. The rise in the proportion of working women and busy lifestyles has led to less time being invested in cooking. This has led to increased reliance on various ready-to-eat/cook food products as they save time while fulfilling nutritional requirements. The leading tuna-consuming markets in the region are Spain, Italy, France, and Portugal. According to a study by the European Market Observatory for Fisheries and Aquaculture Products (EUMOFA), tuna is the most consumed fish in the region. The per capita consumption of tuna in the year 2018 was 2.78 kg, accounting for an 11% share of all the fishery and aquaculture products. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a dip in the consumption of tuna, especially in the most affected countries, Spain and Italy.

North America

North America, the second-largest market for the product, is a developed region with a huge consumer base. The region is experiencing a significant rise in the number of working professionals. The established supply chains and the increasing demand for convenience food will aid market growth. Many multinationals are expanding their production units in the U.S. and Canada, which has led to collaborations with many local players. The presence of a large migrant population in the region leads to a high demand for multi-cuisines and restaurants offering diverse options. The rise in the cross-culture food consumption trend in the region has led to the widening consumption of various cuisines, such as Japanese and Indian that offer preparations such as tekkadon, sushi, and curries. A steep downfall in the market was observed due to the global outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, attributed to low demand for the product from the foodservice industry of the region, especially in the U.S. Many canned food manufacturing companies had shut down, halting production and hampering regional market growth.

The U.S. is the largest consumer of canned seafood, including tuna, which is nutritious, convenient, and popular for its cost-effectiveness. Import activities from Thailand, Ecuador, Vietnam, China, Philippines, and others mainly fulfill the domestic demand for canned tuna fish. For instance, the “Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers,” an association of seafood in Vietnam, stated that the imports of canned tuna to the U.S. reached 33,000 tons in the first half of 2024.

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific holds the third-largest market share owing to the large consumer base in the region. The growing millennial population in the region and its rising inclination toward convenience food have contributed to boosting market growth. Rapid urbanization and the incorporation of Western lifestyles have increased the demand for canned foods. Consumers now widely use them for food preparations due to their convenience of cooking and longer shelf life. This trend has further fueled the market’s growth in the region.

South America and Middle East & Africa

South America and Middle East and Africa hold the least market share, however, evolving taste preferences and rising consumers demand for protein-rich foods have boosted the market in these regions. The tuna fish is widely incorporated into many Latin American dishes due to its mild and flavorful taste, which has positively impacted regional market growth.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Industry Players

Leading Players Focus on New Product Launches for Development of Canned Tuna

Leading players are focusing on launching innovative and exotic seafood variants to address the rising demand among consumers. These players are collaborating with ingredients and seasonings producers to develop exotic products. For instance, In January 2020, Thai Union partnered with a local producer of mixed chili paste to launch five new flavors of spicy tuna flakes for the Thai market. The “SEALECT” spicy tuna flakes come in five flavors, combining key Thai spices such as galangal, turmeric, bird’s eye chili, pepper, and lemongrass. Bolton Group, Century Pacific Foods Inc., Grupo Albacore S.A., Thai Union Group PCL, Bumble Bee Foods LLC, American Tuna Inc. Ocean, and StarKist Co. are the prominent market players in global canned tuna market.

Major Players in the Canned Tuna Market

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Bolton Group, Century Pacific Foods Inc., Grupo Albacore S.A., Bumble Bee Foods LLC, and Thai Union Group Inc. are some of the key players in the market. The global market is semi-fragmented, with the top 5 players accounting for around 40% of the global canned tuna market share.

LIST OF KEY MARKET PLAYERS PROFILED:

• Thai Union Group PLC (Thailand)


• StarKist Co. (U.S.)


• A.E.C. Canning Company Limited (Thailand)


• American Tuna Inc. (U.S.)


• Bumble Bee Foods LLC (U.S.)


• Century Pacific Food Inc. (Philippines)


• Crown Prince Inc. (U.S.)


• Grupo Albacora SA (Spain)


• Wild Planet Foods Inc. (U.S.)


• Golden Prize Canning Co. Ltd. (Thailand)


• Ocean's (Canada)


• Dongwon Enterprise Co., Ltd. (South Korea)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• December 2023 - Tonnito, a leading U.S. canned tuna brand, launched six canned tuna products in the tuna category. The product lineup includes premium yellowfin tuna chunks with sweet corn in water, premium yellowfin tuna with carrots & peas in vegetable oil and others available in Walmart grocers in U.S.


• May 2023 - Thailand seafood manufacturer Thai Union Group launched canned tuna products targeting health-conscious consumers. The canned tuna steak in Himalayan pink brine, a part of the Sealect brand, is rich in protein, selenium, and omega 3.


• March 2021 - Turkish company Dardanel, a leading manufacturer of canned and frozen seafood, completed the acquisition of Greek seafood manufacturer G. Kallimanis SA.


• February 2020 - Fong Chun Formosa Fishery Company (FCF), a Taiwanese canned tuna manufacturer, acquired the U.S. brand “Bumble Bee Foods” for USD 928 million.


• November 2019 - Grupo Jealsa Rianxeira SAU, a Spanish company, launched a new line of 100% sustainable tuna. The product bears a blue label, indicating wild, traceable fish from fisheries certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Fisheries Standard.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

There is a significant opportunity for manufacturers and new entrants to launch new products in this segment. The growing cross-cultural food trend is expected to support the growth of the global canned tuna market. As e-commerce penetration in developing economies is increasing, manufacturers can expand their market presence in such countries and increase their overall revenue.

REPORT COVERAGE

The canned tuna market research report includes qualitative and quantitative insights into the industry. It also offers a detailed analysis of the market size and growth rate for all possible segments. Various key insights presented in the report give an overview of related markets, competitive landscape, recent industry developments such as mergers & acquisitions, the regulatory scenario in critical countries, and key industry trends.

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Report Scope & Segmentation