United States Aquaculture Market Size and Forecast (2025–2033) – vocal.media

United States Aquaculture Market Report: A Sustainable Development Perspective

Executive Summary

The United States aquaculture market is projected to experience significant growth, reaching an estimated US$ 130.67 billion by 2033 from US$ 91.1 billion in 2024, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.09% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is driven by increasing domestic seafood demand, technological innovation, and a strategic focus on food security and sustainability. The sector’s development is critically aligned with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), positioning it as a key industry for achieving national food independence, environmental conservation, and economic resilience.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The U.S. aquaculture industry is making substantial contributions to global sustainability targets through its operations and innovations.

SDG 2: Zero Hunger

Aquaculture directly addresses food security by providing a reliable and scalable source of high-quality protein. As wild catch fisheries face limitations, aquaculture is essential for meeting the nutritional needs of a growing population and reducing the nation’s heavy reliance on seafood imports, which currently exceed 70%.

SDG 14: Life Below Water

By cultivating aquatic species in controlled environments, the industry alleviates pressure on overexploited wild fish stocks. Sustainable aquaculture practices, including ecosystem restoration projects involving oysters and seaweed, contribute to the conservation of marine biodiversity and the health of aquatic habitats.

SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

The sector is increasingly adopting sustainable production patterns. Innovations such as Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) minimize water usage, while Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) creates circular systems that recycle nutrients. Industry certifications like Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) and Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) provide consumers with traceable, responsibly farmed seafood choices.

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

Technological advancement is a cornerstone of modern aquaculture. The development and implementation of resilient infrastructure, including automated feeding systems, AI-driven water quality monitoring, and advanced biosecurity measures, are enhancing efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and fostering a globally competitive U.S. aquaculture technology sector.

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

The aquaculture industry supports sustainable economic growth, particularly in coastal and rural communities. It creates jobs and stimulates local economies through farming, processing, and distribution activities, contributing to resilient livelihoods.

SDG 13: Climate Action

Aquaculture presents a climate-resilient food production model. It generally has a lower carbon footprint compared to land-based livestock farming. Furthermore, the cultivation of seaweed and shellfish can contribute to carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Market Growth Drivers

1. Rising Seafood Demand and Contribution to SDG 2

   Growing consumer awareness of the health benefits of seafood, rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, is increasing per capita consumption. Domestic aquaculture is essential to meet this demand sustainably, enhance national food security, and reduce the trade deficit associated with seafood imports.

2. Technological Advancements in Support of SDG 9

   Innovation is transforming aquaculture into a high-tech industry. Key advancements include:

   • Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS): Enable year-round production with minimal water use.
   • Automation and AI: Optimize feeding, monitor water quality, and predict disease outbreaks, improving yields and operational efficiency.
   • Biotechnology: Genetic research is leading to the development of disease-resistant breeds, enhancing biosecurity and productivity.

3. Sustainability as a Core Priority (SDG 12, 13, 14)

   Consumer and regulatory demand for environmentally responsible food sources is a primary driver. The industry’s focus on sustainability is demonstrated through:

   • Reduced pressure on wild fisheries.
   • Lower carbon emissions relative to other animal protein sources.
   • Development of circular systems for water and waste management.
   • NOAA’s establishment of Aquaculture Opportunity Areas to balance economic growth with ecosystem protection.

Key Market Challenges

1. Regulatory and Permitting Barriers

   The complex and often lengthy permitting process, involving multiple federal, state, and local agencies, can deter investment and slow the implementation of new projects. Streamlining these regulations is crucial for sustainable industry expansion.

2. Disease Management and Biosecurity Risks

   High-density farming environments are susceptible to the rapid spread of pathogens. Addressing this challenge requires investment in:

   • Development of disease-resistant stocks.
   • Advanced diagnostic tools and vaccines.
   • Strict biosecurity protocols to prevent and manage outbreaks.

Regional Market Analysis

• California: A leader in sustainable innovation, focusing on high-value species like oysters and abalone, supported by strong academic research and consumer demand for eco-friendly products.
• Texas: An emerging hub for catfish and shrimp farming, benefiting from a favorable climate and expanding NOAA Opportunity Areas in the Gulf of Mexico.
• New York: A growing force in shellfish farming, particularly oysters and clams, driven by a strong farm-to-table market and supportive state-level programs.
• Florida: A diverse market leader, prominent in ornamental fish production as well as food species like shrimp and clams, leveraging year-round farming conditions.

Recent Industry Developments and Strategic Partnerships (SDG 17)

Strategic collaborations and investments are accelerating innovation and market growth.

• June 2025: Wildtype’s introduction of lab-grown Coho salmon signifies a major step in cellular agriculture, contributing to SDG 14 by reducing pressure on wild salmon populations.
• July 2024: Merck Animal Health’s acquisition of Elanco’s aquaculture division for US$ 1.3 billion highlights a commitment to advancing aquatic health through vaccines and therapeutics.
• July 2024: SyAqua’s acquisition of Primo Broodstock USA aims to enhance shrimp genetics for disease resistance, directly improving biosecurity and production sustainability.

Market Segmentation Overview

By Environment

• Freshwater
• Marine Water
• Brackish Water

By Type

• Fish
• Crustaceans
• Mollusks
• Seaweed & Aquatic Plants
• Others

By End Use

• Food Industry
• Agriculture
• Animal Feed
• Others

Conclusion: Aquaculture as a Pathway to a Sustainable Future

The United States aquaculture sector is transitioning from a niche industry to a central component of the national food system. Its projected growth is intrinsically linked to its capacity to advance key Sustainable Development Goals, including Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Life Below Water (SDG 14), and Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12). By leveraging technology and embracing sustainability, U.S. aquaculture is positioned to enhance food security, promote environmental stewardship, and build a more resilient and prosperous future.

Analysis of the U.S. Aquaculture Market Article and its Connection to Sustainable Development Goals

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 2: Zero Hunger

  The article directly addresses food security, stating that aquaculture is a “renewed national focus on food security” and a “reliable, low-impact, and scalable source of protein.” It highlights that aquaculture “feeds millions” and is essential for “strengthening American food independence” as seafood consumption rises.

• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

  The economic significance of the aquaculture industry is a central theme. The article projects the market to reach “US$ 130.67 billion by 2033,” highlighting its role in supporting “coastal economies.” The growth and innovation within the sector contribute to economic productivity and job creation in various states like California, Texas, New York, and Florida.

• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

  The article is replete with examples of technological advancements and innovation driving the industry. It mentions “cutting-edge farming systems,” “Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS),” “automated feeding technologies,” “AI-driven water-quality monitoring,” and “water-reuse engineering.” These innovations are making the industry more efficient, sustainable, and resilient, positioning the U.S. as a “global technology leader in aquaculture engineering.”

• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

  The article emphasizes a shift towards sustainable production patterns. It discusses “climate-conscious consumers,” the demand for “traceable, locally farmed seafood,” and the adoption of practices that promote sustainability, such as “circular water and waste systems” and “plant-based feeds.” The mention of certifications like “BAP (Best Aquaculture Practices) and ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council)” underscores the industry’s move towards responsible production benchmarks.

• SDG 13: Climate Action

  Aquaculture is presented as a solution to climate-related challenges. The article notes its role in providing “climate resilience in food production” as “climate change stresses oceans.” It also points out that aquaculture has “lower carbon emissions compared to land-based livestock,” making it a more climate-friendly protein source.

• SDG 14: Life Below Water

  A primary benefit of aquaculture highlighted in the article is its contribution to marine conservation. By providing an alternative to wild-caught fish, it helps in “wild stock conservation” and reduces “pressure on wild fish stocks.” The article also mentions “ecosystem restoration” as a contribution of the sector and notes that government initiatives like “NOAA’s Aquaculture Opportunity Areas” are balancing “production growth with ecosystem protection.”

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger

   • Target 2.1: By 2030, end hunger and ensure access by all people… to safe, nutritious and sufficient food all year round. The article supports this by describing aquaculture as a means to ensure “food security” and provide a “reliable… source of protein” to feed millions, thereby increasing the availability of nutritious food.

2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

   • Target 8.2: Achieve higher levels of economic productivity through diversification, technological upgrading and innovation. The article’s focus on “technological advancements” like RAS, AI, and automated systems directly relates to increasing productivity and efficiency in the aquaculture sector.

3. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

   • Target 9.4: By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies. The article’s discussion of “Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS),” which enable “minimal water usage” and “circular water and waste systems,” is a direct example of this target in action.

4. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

   • Target 12.2: By 2030, achieve the sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources. The article highlights innovations that lead to “minimizing water waste” and the use of “plant-based feeds” to reduce reliance on wild fishmeal, aligning with the efficient use of natural resources.

5. SDG 13: Climate Action

   • Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries. The article positions aquaculture as a key component of “climate resilience in food production,” especially as traditional fisheries are stressed by climate change.

6. SDG 14: Life Below Water

   • Target 14.4: By 2020, effectively regulate harvesting and end overfishing… in order to restore fish stocks. The article directly addresses this by stating that aquaculture leads to “reduced pressure on wild fish stocks” and contributes to “wild stock conservation,” which are essential outcomes for restoring marine ecosystems.
   • Target 14.7: By 2030, increase the economic benefits… from the sustainable use of marine resources, including through sustainable management of… aquaculture. The entire article, which details the economic growth (projected to reach US$ 130.67 billion) of a sustainably managed aquaculture industry, embodies this target.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, the article mentions several quantitative and qualitative indicators that can be used to measure progress:

• Economic Growth Indicators:
  • Market value projection: The market is expected to grow from “US$ 91.1 billion in 2024” to “US$ 130.67 billion by 2033.”
  • Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR): The market is projected to expand at a “CAGR of 4.09% from 2025 to 2033.”
• Food Security and Trade Indicators:
  • Import dependency: The article states that “over 70% of U.S. seafood is imported.” A reduction in this percentage would indicate progress towards food independence.
• Innovation and Technology Adoption Indicators:
  • Investment in technology: The “US$ 400 million in U.S. investments” by Stolt-Nielsen to advance land-based aquaculture is a clear indicator of technological upgrading.
  • Corporate investment and acquisition: The “US$ 1.3 billion” acquisition by Merck Animal Health to expand fish health innovations serves as an indicator of investment in the industry’s health and biosecurity infrastructure.
  • Adoption of specific technologies: The increasing use of “Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS),” “automated feeders,” and “AI-driven water-quality monitoring” can be tracked as a measure of innovation.
• Sustainability and Conservation Indicators:
  • Adoption of sustainability certifications: The mention of “BAP (Best Aquaculture Practices) and ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council)” implies that the number of certified farms can be used as an indicator of sustainable practices.
  • Government-led sustainable development: The establishment of “NOAA’s Aquaculture Opportunity Areas” can be tracked in number and size to measure progress in balancing production with ecosystem protection.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: vocal.media