Thailand Shrimp Market, By Species (Penaeus Vannamei, Penaeus Monodon, Macrobrachium Rosenbergii, Others), By Source (Aquaculture, Wild), By Distribution Channel (Hypermarkets & Supermarkets, Convenience Stores, Specialty Stores, Online, Others), By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Thailand shrimp market was valued at USD 1.56 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 2.07 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 4.8% during the forecast period. The Thailand shrimp market is experiencing steady growth, supported by the country’s strong position as one of the world’s leading shrimp producers and exporters, coupled with increasing domestic consumption driven by rising incomes and changing dietary preferences.

Thailand’s well-established aquaculture infrastructure, advanced farming technologies, and stringent quality control systems have strengthened its competitive edge in both regional and global markets. The government’s continued efforts to promote sustainable aquaculture practices, such as disease-resistant breeding programs and eco-friendly farming methods, are enhancing productivity and ensuring compliance with international environmental and food safety standards. Moreover, global demand for protein-rich seafood is on the rise, with shrimp enjoying a premium position due to its versatility, taste, and health benefits, fueling export volumes to key destinations like the United States, Japan, and Europe. Technological advancements in hatchery management, water quality monitoring, and feed optimization are reducing production risks and improving yields, while vertical integration among major players is enabling better supply chain control and cost efficiency. Consumer preferences are also shifting toward certified sustainable and traceable products, prompting producers to adopt certifications such as ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) and BAP (Best Aquaculture Practices) to secure high-value export contracts. Thailand’s strategic logistics network, including well-developed cold chain infrastructure, facilitates timely distribution to both domestic and international markets, supporting consistent quality. 

Key Market Drivers

Strong Export Demand and Global Market Presence

Thailand’s shrimp industry benefits immensely from its well-established status as one of the world’s leading shrimp exporters, with a reputation for high-quality products that meet stringent international standards. The global appetite for shrimp continues to grow, fueled by rising incomes, urbanization, and dietary shifts toward high-protein, low-fat seafood. Thailand’s ability to consistently supply premium shrimp to demanding markets such as the United States, Japan, the European Union, and China has cemented its position as a reliable supplier in global trade. In 2022, Thailand exported approximately 125,000 metric tons of shrimp, positioning it as the fifth-largest shrimp exporter globally. Of this total, approximately 110,000 metric tons were Penaeus vannamei (L. vannamei), showcasing Thailand’s production strength in this adaptable, high-yield species.The country’s long-standing expertise in processing, packaging, and developing value-added shrimp products—such as cooked, peeled, seasoned, or ready-to-eat formats—caters to diverse consumer preferences across different regions. Additionally, favorable trade agreements and low tariff regimes with major importing nations enhance Thailand’s competitiveness, enabling exporters to capture a larger market share. The robust export infrastructure, which includes advanced cold chain logistics, proximity to key shipping routes, and efficient port operations, ensures that products reach destinations quickly while maintaining quality. Moreover, the global foodservice sector’s recovery post-pandemic, along with the rising popularity of Asian cuisines in Western countries, is further boosting shrimp demand. Seasonal and cultural consumption peaks, such as festive periods in China or summer grilling trends in the West, present recurring opportunities for Thai exporters to maximize sales. This sustained and growing export demand is a key driver that not only supports production volumes but also incentivizes continued investment in farming capacity, processing technology, and compliance with evolving international regulations.

Technological Advancements and Sustainable Aquaculture Practices

The second major driver shaping Thailand’s shrimp market is the rapid adoption of advanced farming technologies and sustainable aquaculture practices, which are enhancing production efficiency and resilience against industry challenges. Thailand has made significant strides in adopting intensive and semi-intensive farming systems, supported by innovations in hatchery management, feed formulation, disease prevention, and water quality control. The use of automated feeding systems, aerators, water filtration technologies, and IoT-enabled monitoring tools allows farmers to optimize growth rates while reducing input costs. Disease outbreaks like Early Mortality Syndrome (EMS) in the past prompted the industry to invest heavily in biosecurity measures, genetic improvement programs, and specific pathogen-free (SPF) broodstock, significantly reducing mortality rates and stabilizing yields. Sustainable farming practices are also gaining prominence, driven by both regulatory initiatives and market demand for eco-friendly products. Certifications such as Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) and Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) are becoming standard among leading producers, enabling access to premium markets that require verifiable sustainability credentials. Wastewater treatment systems, integrated multi-trophic aquaculture, and the use of probiotics instead of antibiotics are examples of environmentally responsible innovations being implemented at scale. These practices not only safeguard the environment but also appeal to environmentally conscious consumers in developed markets. Government support through training programs, research collaborations, and infrastructure development further accelerates the sector’s technological transformation. The integration of data analytics, blockchain traceability, and artificial intelligence in farm management is enabling predictive decision-making, improving resource utilization, and increasing transparency across the supply chain. This combination of technology and sustainability not only improves profitability for producers but also ensures long-term industry viability in the face of environmental, regulatory, and market challenges.

Rising Domestic Consumption and Product Diversification

While exports remain a dominant force, the rising domestic demand for shrimp in Thailand is emerging as a strong growth driver, supported by an expanding middle class, increasing urbanization, and changing dietary habits. Domestic shrimp consumption in Thailand has risen sharply—from 78,650 tonnes in 2016 to approximately 136,000 tonnes in 2024, marking an impressive 73% increase over this eight-year period. This trend clearly underscores a robust growth in local demand. Thai consumers are increasingly incorporating shrimp into their regular diets, attracted by its taste, versatility, and nutritional benefits, including being a rich source of lean protein, vitamins, and minerals. The growth of organized retail channels, such as supermarkets, hypermarkets, and specialty seafood stores, has made shrimp more accessible to urban households, while modern packaging and cold storage facilities ensure consistent freshness. The foodservice sector, including restaurants, hotels, and catering services, is also playing a pivotal role in stimulating demand, particularly in the tourism-heavy regions where seafood dishes are a staple for both locals and visitors. In parallel, producers and processors are diversifying their offerings to cater to evolving consumer preferences. Value-added products—such as marinated shrimp, frozen ready-to-cook options, shrimp snacks, and seasoned seafood platters—are gaining popularity among busy urban consumers seeking convenience without compromising on quality. The surge in online grocery platforms and food delivery services has further expanded shrimp’s reach, making it possible for consumers to order fresh or prepared shrimp products directly to their homes. Seasonal promotions, health-focused marketing campaigns, and culinary innovations are also influencing purchasing behavior, with a noticeable rise in demand for premium and sustainably sourced shrimp. Moreover, younger consumers are showing interest in experimenting with shrimp-based fusion cuisines, further diversifying the market’s culinary landscape. This combination of rising domestic consumption and continuous product innovation creates a stable internal demand base that complements export-oriented growth, ensuring that Thailand’s shrimp market remains dynamic and resilient against external trade fluctuations.

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Key Market Challenges

Disease Outbreaks and Biosecurity Risks

One of the most persistent and significant challenges facing the Thailand shrimp market is the threat of disease outbreaks, which can severely impact production volumes, quality, and profitability. Historical incidents such as Early Mortality Syndrome (EMS) and Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease (AHPND) have caused substantial losses for farmers, disrupting supply chains and eroding international market confidence. Despite advancements in pathogen-free broodstock and improved hatchery practices, disease risks remain high due to factors such as high stocking densities, fluctuating water quality, and environmental stress. These outbreaks not only cause direct mortality but also lead to reduced growth rates and increased susceptibility to secondary infections, further lowering yields. The economic repercussions can be severe, forcing farmers to prematurely harvest smaller shrimp, which fetch lower market prices, and increasing operational costs for disease treatment and prevention. Implementing stringent biosecurity measures—such as controlled water intake, disinfection protocols, and farm zoning—requires significant investment, which can be prohibitive for small-scale farmers. Moreover, climate variability, including sudden temperature shifts and heavy rainfall, can exacerbate disease proliferation, making prevention more complex. While technological solutions like real-time water quality monitoring and probiotic applications are helping mitigate risks, the ongoing need for vigilance and adaptation continues to challenge producers. The industry must balance productivity goals with maintaining robust health management systems to ensure long-term stability and international market trust.

Environmental Sustainability and Regulatory Compliance

The growing emphasis on environmental sustainability, while beneficial in the long term, poses a significant operational challenge for Thailand’s shrimp industry in the short to medium term. International buyers, particularly in the EU, North America, and Japan, are increasingly enforcing stringent environmental standards, requiring producers to adopt sustainable practices across the farming and processing chain. Compliance with certifications such as ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) or BAP (Best Aquaculture Practices) often demands substantial investment in wastewater treatment systems, responsible feed sourcing, habitat preservation, and reduced antibiotic usage. These upgrades can be costly, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises that operate on tight margins. Additionally, regulatory frameworks within Thailand are becoming more rigorous, with government agencies implementing stricter environmental impact assessments, farm licensing protocols, and effluent management rules. Failure to meet these requirements can result in export restrictions, fines, or reputational damage. The challenge is further compounded by the growing public and media scrutiny of aquaculture’s ecological footprint, including concerns over mangrove deforestation, water pollution, and biodiversity loss. While many larger companies are successfully transitioning toward sustainable operations, smaller farms often lack access to technical expertise, funding, and infrastructure to make the shift. Balancing environmental stewardship with economic viability remains a delicate task, and without coordinated support from industry associations, government bodies, and financial institutions, sustainability compliance could create barriers to entry or force some producers out of the market.

Volatile Input Costs and Global Market Fluctuations

The profitability of Thailand’s shrimp industry is highly sensitive to fluctuations in input costs and international market conditions, both of which present ongoing challenges. Feed, which accounts for the largest share of production expenses, is subject to price volatility driven by global commodity markets for soymeal, fishmeal, and other key ingredients. Sudden spikes in feed prices can significantly erode farmer margins, particularly when market prices for shrimp remain stagnant or decline due to oversupply. Energy costs, labor expenses, and transportation fees also add to operational pressures, especially given the rising costs of maintaining cold chain logistics for both domestic and export markets. On the demand side, global shrimp prices are influenced by factors such as seasonal consumption patterns, competition from other major producers like India, Ecuador, and Vietnam, and economic conditions in importing countries. Trade policy shifts, including tariff changes, import restrictions, and non-tariff barriers related to food safety standards, can rapidly alter market access and pricing. For instance, economic slowdowns in key export markets can lead to reduced demand, forcing Thai producers to sell at lower prices or redirect shipments to alternative markets, which may not offer comparable margins. Currency fluctuations, particularly the strength of the Thai baht against the US dollar, also impact competitiveness in the global arena. Managing these uncertainties requires robust financial planning, diversification of export destinations, and the ability to adjust production volumes in response to market signals. However, such adaptability can be challenging for smaller operators who lack the resources to absorb sudden shocks, making cost volatility and market unpredictability one of the most difficult structural hurdles for the industry.

Key Market Trends

Increasing Shift Toward Value-Added and Ready-to-Eat Shrimp Products

One of the most prominent trends shaping the Thailand shrimp market is the growing consumer preference for value-added and ready-to-eat shrimp products, both in domestic and export markets. Busy lifestyles, urbanization, and the demand for convenience have driven consumers toward products that require minimal preparation while offering high quality and consistent taste. This shift is encouraging Thai processors to innovate with a wide range of offerings such as marinated shrimp, breaded shrimp, shrimp dumplings, sushi-ready shrimp, and pre-cooked frozen shrimp packs. These products are particularly appealing in markets like North America, Europe, and Japan, where the retail sector places a premium on time-saving meal solutions that also deliver premium flavor and freshness. Within Thailand, the rise of modern retail formats—such as hypermarkets, supermarkets, and online grocery platforms—has expanded the reach of such products, making them easily accessible to urban households. This trend also benefits from advancements in packaging technologies, such as vacuum sealing, modified atmosphere packaging, and portion-controlled packs, which extend shelf life and preserve quality without the need for artificial preservatives. In the foodservice sector, pre-prepared shrimp products help restaurants and caterers manage costs and maintain consistency, particularly in quick-service and casual dining formats. The value-added segment not only enhances profit margins for producers but also opens up avenues for brand differentiation and targeted marketing, allowing companies to tap into niche segments such as premium organic shrimp, allergen-free coatings, or locally flavored seasonings. As a result, the movement toward ready-to-eat and value-added shrimp is no longer just a niche strategy but a core market direction that is influencing investment decisions across processing facilities, product development, and distribution strategies in Thailand’s shrimp sector.

Digitalization and Smart Aquaculture Integration

Digital transformation is rapidly reshaping the Thai shrimp industry, with smart aquaculture tools becoming increasingly common among both large-scale producers and progressive smallholder farms. The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, and blockchain is enabling more efficient and transparent shrimp farming operations. IoT sensors now allow real-time monitoring of critical parameters such as water temperature, dissolved oxygen levels, pH, and ammonia concentrations, enabling farmers to make timely adjustments that improve shrimp health and growth rates. AI-driven predictive models can forecast disease outbreaks, optimize feeding schedules, and reduce resource wastage, significantly lowering operational risks and costs. Blockchain technology is being adopted to improve traceability, a critical factor for accessing premium international markets that demand proof of sustainability, ethical labor practices, and food safety compliance. Through blockchain, every stage—from hatchery to harvest to distribution—can be recorded, offering end-to-end visibility for buyers and regulators. Digital platforms are also helping connect farmers directly to buyers, bypassing intermediaries and improving price realization for producers. Additionally, mobile apps and cloud-based farm management systems are providing training, technical support, and performance tracking, empowering smaller farmers with knowledge and tools that were previously available only to large corporations. The government and private sector are increasingly collaborating to expand digital infrastructure, making these technologies more accessible and affordable. This digitization trend is not only improving productivity and compliance but is also fostering a data-driven culture within the shrimp farming community, positioning Thailand as a leader in modern aquaculture practices on the global stage.

Growing Focus on Sustainable and Ethical Shrimp Production

Sustainability and ethical production have evolved from niche concerns into mainstream trends that are influencing buyer decisions, regulatory frameworks, and brand positioning in the Thailand shrimp market. International consumers, particularly in Europe and North America, are increasingly seeking seafood products that are certified for environmental responsibility, social compliance, and traceability. In response, Thai producers are investing heavily in sustainable aquaculture methods such as closed-loop recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA), and low-impact pond designs that reduce habitat destruction and water pollution. Ethical labor practices are also gaining attention, with international buyers demanding proof of fair wages, safe working conditions, and the absence of forced labor in supply chains. Certifications such as ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council), BAP (Best Aquaculture Practices), and Fair Trade USA have become essential for accessing certain export markets, and many Thai exporters now promote these credentials prominently in their marketing strategies. Beyond meeting certification requirements, some companies are innovating with eco-friendly shrimp feeds that use alternative protein sources such as insect meal or plant-based ingredients, thereby reducing dependence on wild-caught fishmeal and contributing to ocean conservation. Public-private partnerships are emerging to support small and medium-sized farms in adopting sustainable practices, including financial incentives, training programs, and technical assistance. The move toward sustainability also aligns with Thailand’s broader national goals for responsible fisheries and environmental protection, helping the industry secure its reputation as a trusted source of ethically and sustainably produced shrimp. This growing emphasis is not just about regulatory compliance but also about long-term brand building, as consumers and importers increasingly reward companies that demonstrate genuine commitment to environmental and social responsibility.

Segmental Insights

Distribution Channel Insights

In Thailand, Hypermarkets and supermarkets form one of the most important retail channels for shrimp sales in Thailand, offering consumers a wide selection of fresh, frozen, and value-added products. The expansion of modern retail chains across urban and suburban areas has significantly increased shrimp accessibility for middle- and upper-income households. Retailers often feature live seafood tanks, chilled seafood counters, and ready-to-cook frozen packs, catering to diverse consumer preferences. This channel also benefits from strong supply chain integration, enabling consistent quality and competitive pricing. Promotional campaigns, in-store sampling, and seasonal seafood festivals drive significant sales volume through hypermarkets and supermarkets.

Species Insights

In Thailand, Penaeus vannamei, commonly known as whiteleg shrimp, dominates Thailand’s shrimp production landscape due to its adaptability, fast growth rates, and higher survival rates compared to other species. This species thrives in intensive and semi-intensive farming systems and has become the preferred choice for large-scale aquaculture operations in the country. Its shorter grow-out cycle allows farmers to produce multiple harvests per year, improving profitability and supply consistency. The widespread adoption of disease-resistant broodstock and biosecurity measures has further reduced mortality risks for vannamei farming, making it more reliable than other shrimp species. In processing terms, vannamei’s mild flavor, firm texture, and versatility make it highly popular in both raw and value-added product formats, catering to diverse consumer preferences in domestic and export markets. The species’ adaptability to various salinity levels and tolerance to high-density farming make it ideal for regions with intensive aquaculture infrastructure. It is also a preferred option for frozen, peeled, deveined, and ready-to-cook products, which are in high demand in retail and foodservice sectors worldwide. Given its combination of productivity, quality, and market acceptance, Penaeus vannamei remains the most economically important shrimp species for Thailand’s industry.

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Regional Insights

In Thailand, Southern Thailand was the leading region in shrimp production, driven by its extensive coastline, favorable climate, and established aquaculture culture. Provinces such as Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, and Songkhla have long histories of shrimp farming, particularly Penaeus vannamei and Penaeus monodon. The southern region not only supplies a significant portion of the country’s export volume but also supports domestic demand through fresh seafood markets and tourism-driven foodservice sectors. Its coastal environment supports year-round production, and the integration of advanced technologies such as automated feeding, IoT-based water quality monitoring, and sustainable pond management practices has made it a highly competitive region. Southern Thailand’s dominance is further reinforced by its strong network of processing facilities, cold chain logistics, and direct shipping routes to international markets.

Recent Developments

• In 2024, Thai Union Group rolled out a pioneering Shrimp Decarbonization pilot in partnership with The Nature Conservancy and Ahold Delhaize USA. This initiative aims to significantly curb greenhouse gas emissions in the shrimp supply chain by optimizing feed and farm efficiency, with an initial target of producing 1,000 metric tons of low-impact, fully traceable processed shrimp.
• The Seafood Task Force (STF) convened its 2025 Thai Shrimp Supply Chain Planning Meeting, unveiling a comprehensive action plan focused on enhancing traceability, assessing carbon emissions, and supporting small-scale farms through regional training. Participants reviewed social compliance benchmarks and devised collective remediation strategies to bolster transparency and sustainability across Thailand’s shrimp value chain.
• Thailand is set to host the 14th Aquaculture Roundtable Series (TARS) 2025 on August 20–21 in Chiang Mai. This major industry event will spotlight precision farming, disease resilience, sustainable aquaculture models, and emerging technologies—in response to challenges like oversupply, low prices, and rising production costs.
• SyAqua, backed by Ocean 14 Capital, has emerged as the fastest-growing supplier of SPF L. vannamei broodstock. In Thailand alone, sales surged from 0 in 2021 to 18,000 in 2024, with global ambitions to supply 200,000 broodstock in 2025. SyAqua’s genetics-optimized "balanced line"—noted for its disease resistance and growth efficiency—is gaining traction, positioning it to become the world’s largest third-party broodstock provider.

Key Market Players

• Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited
• Thai Union Group Public Company Limited
• Thai Union Frozen Products Public Co., Ltd.
• Thai Union Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
• Thai Union Seafood Co., Ltd.
• Sea Value Group
• Seafresh Group
• Prantalay Marketing Co., Ltd.
• Siam Canadian Group
• Surapon Foods Public Company Limited.

Report Scope:

In this report, the Thailand Shrimp market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Thailand Shrimp Market, By Species:

o   Penaeus Vannamei

o   Penaeus Monodon

o   Macrobrachium Rosenbergii

o   Others

• Thailand Shrimp Market, By Source:

o   Aquaculture

o   Wild

• Thailand Shrimp Market, By Distribution Channel:

o   Hypermarkets & Supermarkets

o   Convenience Stores

o   Specialty Stores

o   Online

o   Others

• Thailand Shrimp Market, By Region:

o   Northern

o   Northeast

o   Central

o   Western

o   Eastern

o   Southern

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the Thailand Shrimp market.

Available Customizations:

Thailand Shrimp 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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