The global canned tuna market size reached USD 23.68 billion in 2024, reflecting steady market performance across regions. This market is projected to grow further at a CAGR of 3.91% during the forecast period of 2025–2034, eventually reaching a value of approximately USD 34.75 billion by 2034. Market dynamics are driven by increasing demand for convenient protein sources, with consumers prioritizing health and shelf-stable options. Leading manufacturers focus on sustainable fishing practices and product innovation to meet evolving consumer preferences and ensure continued market growth in the coming years.
Canned tuna remains a widely consumed seafood product due to its long shelf life, high protein content, affordability, and ease of preparation. As consumers increasingly seek healthy and convenient meal options, canned tuna has secured its place in household pantries across the world. The sector continues to evolve with developments in packaging technology, new flavor introductions, and strong marketing efforts emphasizing sustainability and nutritional benefits.
Expert Market Research
According to Expert Market Research, the canned tuna market is witnessing consistent global demand, bolstered by an increasing focus on health-conscious diets and convenient meal solutions. Expert Market Research’s analysis of the canned tuna market emphasizes the role of shifting dietary patterns, especially among urban populations, in sustaining market momentum. Their research highlights that consumers are not only looking for easy-to-prepare food but are also becoming more informed about environmental impacts, pushing brands to adopt ethical and sustainable fishing methods.
Expert Market Research also identifies a rise in premium and value-added canned tuna products, such as those packed in olive oil, organic varieties, and ready-to-eat meals. The firm’s reports offer critical insights into regional market trends, competitive dynamics, and consumer behavior, helping businesses understand where to invest and innovate within the global canned tuna market.
Market Drivers and Growth Factors
Rising Demand for Convenient and Healthy Protein
Consumers across the globe are increasingly turning to canned tuna as a source of lean protein that is affordable, versatile, and accessible. The growing trend of fitness and wellness, coupled with the rising popularity of low-carb and high-protein diets, continues to support canned tuna consumption.
Urbanization and Busy Lifestyles
Urban consumers with limited time for food preparation are driving demand for shelf-stable and ready-to-eat products. Canned tuna, often available in pre-flavored or meal-ready formats, aligns well with the needs of time-strapped consumers.
Nutritional Benefits
Canned tuna is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and essential minerals, making it a go-to option for health-conscious consumers. The growing awareness of these benefits has reinforced tuna’s image as a functional food.
Shelf-Stability and Long-Term Storage
As global consumers become more inclined to stock pantry essentials, especially post-COVID-19, the importance of non-perishable, nutritious products has become more evident. Canned tuna’s long shelf life gives it a competitive edge.
Market Challenges
Overfishing and Sustainability Concerns
One of the primary concerns facing the canned tuna industry is overfishing, which threatens marine biodiversity. Public awareness of these issues has led to increasing scrutiny of fishing practices and sourcing.
Mercury Content in Tuna
Health concerns regarding mercury levels in tuna have prompted some consumers to limit consumption, especially among pregnant women and children. Brands have responded by offering low-mercury varieties and increasing transparency.
Intense Market Competition
The market is saturated with local and international brands, each competing on price, sustainability credentials, and quality. Maintaining brand loyalty is increasingly difficult in such a commoditized sector.
Segmentation of the Canned Tuna Market
By Product Type
Canned Skipjack Tuna: The most consumed variety globally due to its affordability and light flavor.
Canned Albacore Tuna: Often marketed as “white tuna,” this variant is considered higher quality and fetches premium prices.
Canned Yellowfin Tuna: Prized for its firmer texture and robust flavor.
By Distribution Channel
Supermarkets and Hypermarkets: The primary channel for canned tuna, offering a wide variety of products and brands.
Convenience Stores: Popular in urban centers for quick purchases.
Online Retail: Witnessing rapid growth due to the increasing use of e-commerce platforms.
Foodservice Industry: Restaurants, cafeterias, and hotels use canned tuna in salads, sandwiches, and other meals.
By Packaging Type
Cans (Traditional): The most common format, offering long shelf life and durability.
Pouches (Modern): Lightweight and convenient, pouches are gaining popularity for single-serve consumption.
Regional Analysis
North America
North America represents a significant share of the canned tuna market, particularly the United States. High awareness of health benefits and strong supply chain infrastructure contribute to market dominance. Leading brands focus on sustainable sourcing to align with eco-conscious consumer preferences.
Europe
European countries, particularly Italy, Spain, and the UK, are major consumers of canned tuna. The Mediterranean diet, which promotes seafood consumption, supports high tuna intake. European Union regulations also ensure strict compliance with sustainability and quality standards.
Asia-Pacific
Asia-Pacific is a vital region both in terms of production and consumption. Countries such as Thailand and Indonesia are among the leading global producers, while Japan and the Philippines exhibit high per capita consumption. Regional demand is driven by affordability and cultural preferences.
Latin America and the Middle East
Emerging markets in Latin America and the Middle East are expanding rapidly. Economic development, population growth, and westernized eating habits are key contributors. Additionally, the affordability and shelf life of canned tuna make it suitable for low- to middle-income households.
Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing Trends
Sustainability has become a central concern in the canned tuna market. Key players are adopting Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certifications and engaging in traceability efforts to reassure consumers. Brands are also participating in dolphin-safe labeling and promoting responsible fishing practices to maintain marine ecosystems.
Efforts to promote pole-and-line fishing, reduce bycatch, and avoid illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing are becoming standard industry practices. This not only meets regulatory requirements but also aligns with growing consumer demand for ethical food choices.
Innovation in Products and Packaging
Product Innovations
Ready-to-Eat Meals: Combining canned tuna with rice, pasta, or beans in single-serve packs.
Flavored Varieties: Tuna flavored with herbs, spices, and exotic ingredients (e.g., chili-lime, curry, lemon-pepper).
Organic and Low-Sodium Options: Catering to the health-conscious demographic.
Packaging Innovations
BPA-Free Cans: As health concerns around Bisphenol-A rise, manufacturers are shifting to safer alternatives.
Eco-Friendly Packaging: Recyclable and biodegradable packaging solutions are being adopted to reduce the environmental impact.
Key Market Players
Major companies in the canned tuna industry include:
Thai Union Group PCL (owner of brands like Chicken of the Sea)
Bumble Bee Foods, LLC
StarKist Co.
Century Pacific Food, Inc.
Frinsa del Noroeste S.A.
American Tuna, Inc.
Wild Planet Foods, Inc.
These companies are investing in branding, supply chain transparency, and sustainable sourcing to strengthen market share. Competitive strategies include mergers, acquisitions, product launches, and expansion into new geographies.
Future Outlook and Opportunities
The future of the canned tuna market is expected to be shaped by several factors:
Rising Popularity in Developing Markets: Increased demand in emerging economies due to income growth and changing dietary habits.
Focus on Sustainability: Brands that lead in eco-conscious fishing and ethical sourcing will enjoy long-term consumer trust.
Premiumization of Products: Introduction of gourmet and health-oriented tuna products at premium price points.
Technology Integration: Use of blockchain for traceability, smart packaging, and AI for demand forecasting.
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