South America Canned Seafood Market, By Product Type (Canned Fish, Canned Shrimp, Canned Prawns, Others), By Distribution Channel (Online, Offline), By Country, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

South America Canned Seafood Market was valued at USD 3.19 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 3.82 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 3.05% during the forecast period. ​ The South America canned seafood market has witnessed steady growth, driven by rising consumer demand for convenient, protein-rich, and shelf-stable food products. Key countries such as Brazil, Chile, and Peru dominate the market due to their robust fishing industries and well-established export infrastructure. Growing health consciousness, increasing urbanization, and busy lifestyles are encouraging consumers to opt for canned tuna, sardines, and mackerel as quick meal solutions.

Market Drivers

Rising Health and Nutrition Awareness

A major driver of the South America canned seafood market is the growing consumer awareness regarding health and nutrition. In 2024, the Brazilian government reported that 24.4 million people overcame severe food insecurity, and poverty fell to its lowest level since 2012, reflecting efforts to improve access to healthier food options. Seafood, particularly tuna, sardines, and mackerel, is recognized as a rich source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that support heart and brain health. Consumers are increasingly seeking functional foods that contribute to overall well-being, leading to a preference for seafood over processed or red meat options. Public health campaigns, nutritional guidelines, and media coverage promoting the benefits of seafood consumption are influencing buying patterns, particularly among middle-class urban populations in Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. This heightened focus on health and wellness is directly translating into increased demand for canned seafood as a convenient, ready-to-eat, and nutritious option.

Convenience and Urban Lifestyle Trends

The shift toward urban lifestyles and busier daily routines is another significant factor fueling the canned seafood market in South America. Approximately 80% of South America’s population lives in urban areas, making it one of the most urbanized regions globally. With more people living in metropolitan areas and engaging in dual-income households, there is a growing preference for foods that are easy to store, require minimal preparation, and have a longer shelf life. Canned seafood perfectly addresses these needs by offering ready-to-eat meals that can be quickly incorporated into lunches, dinners, or snacks. Retailers are responding by stocking a wider variety of canned options, including pre-flavored and portion-controlled packs, which appeal to urban consumers seeking time-saving yet healthy food choices. The convenience factor is especially critical in cities like São Paulo, Buenos Aires, and Santiago, where fast-paced lifestyles drive demand for on-the-go nutrition.

Expanding Retail and E-Commerce Channels

The rapid expansion of modern retail and e-commerce channels in South America is significantly boosting the canned seafood market. In 2023, Brazilian e-commerce reached USD 36.19 billion, growing 4% from 2022. Supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores have increasingly become primary outlets for canned seafood, offering wider product assortments, promotional campaigns, and visibility to consumers. Simultaneously, the growth of online grocery platforms is facilitating easy access to a broader range of products, including imported seafood, premium brands, and sustainable options. The rise of digital shopping, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has encouraged consumers to explore different brands, flavors, and package sizes from the comfort of their homes. This extensive availability and accessibility are helping to drive market penetration beyond traditional urban centers into smaller towns and emerging regions, thereby expanding the overall consumer base.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Sourcing Trends

Sustainability concerns and environmentally conscious purchasing behavior are increasingly shaping the canned seafood market in South America. Consumers are becoming more aware of overfishing, bycatch, and the ecological impact of seafood production. In response, producers are adopting sustainable fishing practices, sourcing MSC-certified seafood, and promoting eco-friendly packaging to appeal to conscious buyers. Brands that emphasize traceability, responsible sourcing, and reduced carbon footprints are gaining trust and loyalty, particularly among younger, environmentally aware demographics. This emphasis on sustainability not only enhances brand reputation but also drives higher demand for canned seafood products perceived as ethical and responsible, creating a competitive advantage for manufacturers that prioritize eco-friendly practices.

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Key Market Challenges

Fluctuating Raw Material Prices

One of the primary challenges facing the South America canned seafood market is the volatility in raw material costs, particularly for fish such as tuna, sardines, and mackerel. Factors such as overfishing, changing ocean temperatures, and fluctuating global demand influence supply levels, causing price instability. These price fluctuations can significantly impact profit margins for manufacturers, especially smaller local producers who lack strong supply chain resilience. Additionally, import-dependent countries face higher costs due to currency variations and transportation expenses, which can lead to higher retail prices. This unpredictability often makes it difficult for companies to plan production and pricing strategies effectively, potentially slowing market growth.

Quality and Safety Concerns

Maintaining consistent product quality and safety is another major challenge in the canned seafood market. Contamination risks, improper storage, and inadequate processing standards can lead to foodborne illnesses, product recalls, or loss of consumer trust. In South America, regulatory oversight varies between countries, and some smaller manufacturers may struggle to meet stringent quality certifications. Consumers are increasingly cautious about preservatives, heavy metals, and hygiene standards, making trust in brands a critical factor. Failure to address these concerns can harm market reputation and limit the adoption of canned seafood, particularly among health-conscious buyers.

Intense Competition and Market Fragmentation

The South American canned seafood market is highly competitive and fragmented, with numerous local, regional, and international players vying for market share. Established brands compete on price, quality, and flavor variety, while smaller producers often struggle to differentiate themselves. Additionally, private-label products from supermarkets exert pricing pressure on branded offerings, making it difficult to maintain margins. Market fragmentation also complicates distribution and marketing strategies, requiring significant investment in brand awareness and retail partnerships. This competitive landscape challenges manufacturers to innovate, maintain consistent quality, and build customer loyalty while navigating price-sensitive markets.

Key Market Trends

Premiumization and Value-Added Products

A prominent trend in the South American canned seafood market is the move toward premiumization and value-added products. Consumers are increasingly willing to pay higher prices for products that offer superior quality, unique flavors, or health benefits. This includes canned seafood prepared with olive oil, herbs, and spices, or mixed with vegetables and sauces to create ready-to-eat gourmet meals. Brands are also experimenting with larger portion packs, multipacks, and convenient single-serve cans that cater to on-the-go lifestyles. The focus on premium products allows manufacturers to differentiate themselves in a competitive market while appealing to urban middle- and upper-class consumers who seek convenience without compromising taste or nutrition.

Sustainability and Traceability Initiatives

Sustainability is not just a driver but a defining trend in the South American canned seafood market. Consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of fishing practices, such as overfishing and bycatch. In response, brands are emphasizing traceability, sourcing seafood from certified sustainable fisheries, and using eco-friendly packaging materials. Labels highlighting MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) certification or “responsibly caught” claims are gaining traction, particularly among younger and environmentally conscious consumers. Companies that actively communicate their sustainability initiatives are more likely to earn consumer trust, enhance brand loyalty, and gain a competitive edge in a market where transparency is becoming a key purchase criterion.

Digital Engagement and E-Commerce Growth

The rise of digital engagement and e-commerce is reshaping how consumers discover, purchase, and interact with canned seafood brands. Online grocery platforms, mobile apps, and social media channels are increasingly used to market products, provide nutritional information, and offer promotions. Digital platforms enable manufacturers to reach consumers in smaller cities and remote areas, beyond traditional supermarket networks. Moreover, direct-to-consumer subscription models for curated seafood assortments are gaining popularity, offering convenience, freshness, and variety. The shift toward online sales also encourages brands to invest in digital storytelling, influencer partnerships, and interactive campaigns that build brand awareness and loyalty in an increasingly connected consumer landscape.

Innovation in Packaging and Convenience Features

Packaging innovation is a significant trend shaping the South American canned seafood market, enhancing both functionality and consumer appeal. Easy-open pull-tab cans, resealable containers, and lightweight, recyclable packaging are becoming standard features that align with modern lifestyle demands. Transparent packaging options allow consumers to see the product quality, boosting trust and engagement. Additionally, multifunctional packaging that doubles as a serving dish or combines multiple product types in a single pack is gaining traction among urban consumers seeking convenience. These innovations not only improve shelf visibility and ease of use but also support sustainability goals, addressing consumer preferences for eco-friendly, practical, and visually appealing packaging solutions.

Segmental Insights

Product Type Insights

Canned fish was the dominating segment in the South American canned seafood market, driven by its widespread consumption, affordability, and long shelf life. Tuna and sardines, in particular, are staple proteins in households across Brazil, Chile, and Argentina, making them a preferred choice for quick meals and snacks. Their versatility in recipes, from sandwiches to salads, further boosts demand. Additionally, strong distribution through supermarkets, hypermarkets, and e-commerce platforms ensures easy accessibility. While canned shrimp and prawns are gaining popularity as premium options, canned fish continues to lead in both volume and revenue, cementing its position as the core segment of the market.

Distribution Channel Insights

The online segment is the fastest-growing channel in the South American canned seafood market, fueled by the rapid expansion of e-commerce platforms and changing consumer shopping behaviors. Urban consumers increasingly prefer the convenience of ordering groceries from home, benefiting from home delivery, subscription services, and access to a wider variety of brands and premium products. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated digital adoption, and ongoing improvements in logistics and payment systems have strengthened consumer confidence in online grocery shopping. Social media promotions, influencer campaigns, and targeted digital marketing further drive awareness and purchases, making online retail the most dynamic and rapidly expanding segment in the regional market.

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Country Insights

Brazil was the dominating country in the South American canned seafood market, accounting for the largest consumption and production volumes in the region. The country benefits from a well-established fishing industry, abundant marine resources, and a strong domestic supply chain that supports year-round availability of canned fish such as tuna and sardines. Rising urbanization, increasing health consciousness, and busy lifestyles among Brazilian consumers further drive demand for convenient, ready-to-eat seafood products. Supermarkets, hypermarkets, and expanding e-commerce platforms provide widespread access, while promotional campaigns by leading brands strengthen market presence. Collectively, these factors position Brazil as the key market leader in the region.

Recent Developments

• ​In 2024, a Brazilian processor signed an exclusive licensing deal to launch Popeye-branded canned seafood in the U.S., expanding the brand's reach and introducing new products to the market.
• BELA, a Brazilian seafood brand, introduced premium canned seafood products in 2024, focusing on high-quality ingredients and sustainable sourcing to cater to health-conscious consumers.
• In 2024, Argentina's largest seafood producer secured a partnership to expand sales in the Middle East, indicating plans to introduce new canned seafood products to international markets.

Key Market Players

• Trident Seafoods
• Tri Marine
• La Doria
• Icicle Seafood
• Nissui
• StarKist Co.
• Thai Union Group
• Maruha Nichiro Corp
• Brunswick Corp
• American Tuna

Report Scope:

In this report, the South America Canned Seafood Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

·          South America Canned Seafood Market, By Product Type:

o   Canned Fish

o   Canned Shrimp

o   Canned Prawns

o   Others

·         South America Canned Seafood Market, By Distribution Channel:

o   Online

o   Offline

·         South America Canned Seafood Market, By Country:

o   Brazil

o   Argentina

o   Colombia

o   Rest of South America

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the South America Canned Seafood Market.

Available Customizations:

The South America Canned Seafood Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

·         Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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