Japan Plant-based Seafood Market

Japan Plant-based Seafood Market Overview:

The Japan plant-based seafood market size reached USD 6.2 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 79.0 Million by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 28.90% during 2025-2033. The market share is expanding, driven by the growing awareness about the environmental and ethical concerns linked with traditional fishing practices, along with the expansion of retail outlets that aid in enhancing the accessibility of items.

Japan Plant-based Seafood Market Trends:

Growing vegan and flexitarian trends

Rising vegan and flexitarian trends are offering a favorable Japan plant-based seafood market outlook. According to the World Population Review, in Japan, the vegan population reached 2.7% in 2024. As more people are becoming aware about the environmental and ethical concerns linked with traditional fishing practices, they are looking for alternative options that align with their values. This shift is not only limited to strict vegans but also encompasses many flexitarians, who are utilizing plant-based seafood items for their perceived health benefits and sustainability. In Japan, where seafood is a big part of the diet, the demand for plant-based versions of sushi, sashimi, and other local dishes is growing steadily. People are trying products that mimic the taste and texture of fish but are made from soy, seaweed, and other plant-based ingredients. Restaurants are responding by introducing more options for cater to this increasing demand. Younger people, especially in urban areas, are seeking innovative food choices that match their lifestyles. Social media trends are also influencing local habits, making plant-based seafood more popular.

Expansion of retail channels

The expansion of retail outlets is impelling the Japan plant-based seafood market growth. As per the information released by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), retail sales for November 2024 indicated a rise of 2.8% year-on-year, surpassing the anticipated rise of 1.5% and exceeding the prior figure of 1.3%. As more supermarkets, convenience stores, and specialty food outlets are adding plant-based products to their shelves, it is becoming easier for people to access and try these alternatives. Big retail chains are noticing the growing interest in healthier and sustainable food item options and stocking plant-based seafood products to meet demand. This wider availability is especially important in Japan, where convenience and freshness are major factors in food choices. With plant-based seafood showing up in ready-to-eat (RTE) meals, frozen sections, and bento boxes, shoppers are more willing to give these items a try. Promotions, in-store tastings, and clear labeling also help educate consumers and create curiosity around these new options. Retail expansion is also aiding small and innovative plant-based brands in reaching a broader audience. As competition increases among stores, many outlets are using plant-based offerings to stand out and appeal to health-conscious shoppers.

Japan Plant-based Seafood Market Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the regional level for 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on product type and distribution channel.

Product Type Insights:

• Fish Products
• Prawn and Shrimp Products
• Crab Products

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the product type. This includes fish products, prawn and shrimp products, and crab products.

Distribution Channel Insights:

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Online
• Others

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the distribution channel have also been provided in the report. This includes supermarkets and hypermarkets, convenience stores, online, and others.

Regional Insights:

• Kanto Region
• Kansai/Kinki Region
• Central/Chubu Region
• Kyushu-Okinawa Region
• Tohoku Region
• Chugoku Region
• Hokkaido Region
• Shikoku Region

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include Kanto Region, Kansai/Kinki Region, Central/Chubu Region, Kyushu-Okinawa Region, Tohoku Region, Chugoku Region, Hokkaido Region, and Shikoku Region.

Competitive Landscape:

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape. Competitive analysis such as market structure, key player positioning, top winning strategies, competitive dashboard, and company evaluation quadrant has been covered in the report. Also, detailed profiles of all major companies have been provided.

Japan Plant-based Seafood Market News:

• In March 2024, Azuma Foods, the prominent Japanese food item manufacturer, introduced a new range of plant-based seafood, ‘Future Fish’, under its Green Surf brand. The new line that included tuna, salmon, and squid sought to provide animal-free options to alleviate the pressure on marine resources from fishing.
• In January 2024, NH Foods unveiled a plant-based tuna sashimi for the food service industry in Japan. It was created from plant-oriented components, such as konjac flour, dietary fiber, and yeast, utilizing a unique processing technique to mimic the smooth consistency of tuna. The item was to be offered frozen, with prices lower than tuna.

Japan Plant-based Seafood Market Report Coverage:

Key Questions Answered in This Report:

• How has the Japan plant-based seafood market performed so far and how will it perform in the coming years?
• What is the breakup of the Japan plant-based seafood market on the basis of product type?
• What is the breakup of the Japan plant-based seafood market on the basis of distribution channel?
• What is the breakup of the Japan plant-based seafood market on the basis of region?
• What are the various stages in the value chain of the Japan plant-based seafood market? 
• What are the key driving factors and challenges in the Japan plant-based seafood market?
• What is the structure of the Japan plant-based seafood market and who are the key players?
• What is the degree of competition in the Japan plant-based seafood market? 

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the Japan plant-based seafood market from 2019-2033.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the Japan plant-based seafood market.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the Japan plant-based seafood industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.