Seaweed Market Outlook, 2030

The global seaweed market is experiencing significant growth, largely due to the increasing consumer demand for plant-based products. The shift towards healthier and more sustainable food options, with seaweed being recognized for its rich nutrient profile and environmental benefits is accelerating the seaweed market demand. Urbanization is playing a crucial role in shaping demand, as urban consumers increasingly prefer seaweed-based products due to greater awareness of their health benefits, convenience, and nutritional value, while the proliferation of retail and foodservice outlets makes these products more accessible.

Innovations are transforming the market, including the development of seaweed-based bioplastics, biofertilizers, functional foods, and biotechnology-driven cultivation of high-value species with improved nutrient profiles and environmental resilience. However, the industry operates under a complex regulatory and policy landscape, with regional differences in sustainability mandates, marine spatial planning, and environmental protection requirements; certifications addressing biosecurity, environmental impact, and quality standards are becoming essential for market access and consumer trust.

Facts from the market indicate a strong preference for red and brown seaweed species due to their versatility in human consumption and industrial applications, while dried and processed forms dominate sales because of their longer shelf life and ease of use. Moreover, various pharmaceutical and nutraceutical companies are increasingly exploring the medicinal potential of seaweed to develop drugs and supplements. For instance, CadalminTM LivCure extract, a patent-protected nutraceutical product developed by the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) from seaweeds to combat non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, will be available in the market soon.

According to the research report "Global Seaweed Market Outlook, 2030,", the Global Seaweed market was valued at more than USD 18.71 Billion in 2024, and expected to reach a market size of more than USD 28.30 Billion by 2030 with the CAGR of 7.29% from 2025-2030. The growing awareness about animal welfare has accelerated the tread of turning vegan or following a vegetarian diet, which has further increased consumption of plant-based products. These products are gaining popularity across several sectors such as the food and cosmetics industry with the evolving perception that plant-based products are safer & healthier compared to animal-originated products.

Macro algae being a good source of protein, is now extensively utilized to develop plant-based protein alternatives, which is fueling the growth of this market. For instance, in June 2020, a French-based bio marine ingredient company invested USD 2.4 million to develop a new range of seaweed-based solutions in order to create plant-based substitutes. Additionally, seaweed cultivation provides significant environmental benefits, including carbon sequestration and nutrient remediation, helping mitigate ocean acidification and eutrophication, which has attracted attention from governments and environmental organizations alike.

Economically, seaweed farming offers livelihoods for millions, particularly in coastal regions of Asia and Africa, empowering local communities and providing employment opportunities, including for women in regions with limited options. The market also benefits from growing innovation and knowledge-sharing through supporting events, conferences, and seminars, which provide platforms for collaboration and dissemination of research.

Notable examples include the Seagriculture World Conference, which brings global stakeholders together to explore new technologies and business opportunities, the UN Global Seaweed Initiative that promotes sustainable development and climate action through seaweed utilization, and the California Seaweed Festival, which highlights cultural, culinary, and industrial applications of seaweed.

Market Drivers

• Rising Demand in Food and Nutraceuticals: The global seaweed market is largely driven by increasing consumer awareness of health and nutrition. Seaweed is rich in vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds, making it an attractive ingredient in health supplements, functional foods, and plant-based diets. The growing popularity of vegan and vegetarian lifestyles has further boosted demand for seaweed-derived ingredients as natural sources of iodine, calcium, and protein. Additionally, the expanding nutraceutical industry is promoting the incorporation of seaweed in dietary supplements, weight management products, and immunity-boosting formulations. This consistent and rising demand is pushing producers to scale up cultivation and processing capacities worldwide.
• Growth in Cosmetics and Personal Care Industry: Seaweed extracts are increasingly used in cosmetics and personal care products due to their anti-aging, moisturizing, and antioxidant properties. Skincare brands are leveraging seaweed-derived compounds to develop products like creams, serums, and masks, catering to consumers’ preference for natural and eco-friendly formulations. This trend is especially strong in Asia-Pacific and North America, where organic and sustainable beauty products are gaining traction. The expanding cosmetic sector provides a steady growth avenue for the seaweed market, encouraging innovation in extraction methods and product diversification.

Market Challenges

• Seasonal and Environmental Constraints: Seaweed cultivation is heavily influenced by environmental conditions, including water temperature, salinity, and light availability. Natural disasters, ocean pollution, and climate change can disrupt production cycles, resulting in inconsistent yields and affecting supply stability. Such environmental vulnerabilities pose a significant challenge for manufacturers who rely on steady raw material availability for food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications.
• High Production and Processing Costs: Despite its rising demand, seaweed production involves labor-intensive harvesting and advanced processing techniques to extract bioactive compounds. The costs associated with cultivation, drying, refining, and quality control can be significant, particularly for high-value applications in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. These high costs can limit profit margins and make pricing competitive against synthetic alternatives, slowing market penetration in price-sensitive regions.

Market Trends

• Innovation in Seaweed-Based Ingredients: There is a strong trend toward developing new seaweed-derived ingredients and products to cater to health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers. Innovations include plant-based protein powders, alginate-based biodegradable packaging, and functional food additives. Companies are also exploring genetically optimized seaweed varieties to improve nutritional content, growth rate, and resistance to environmental stressors. This trend is driving product diversification and creating new market opportunities.
• Sustainability and Environmental Awareness: The global seaweed market is witnessing a shift toward sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Seaweed farming is promoted as a low-impact, carbon-negative form of aquaculture that can mitigate ocean acidification and enhance marine biodiversity. Consumers increasingly prefer sustainably sourced seaweed products, leading to certifications and traceability standards across the supply chain. This trend aligns with global sustainability initiatives and strengthens the market’s long-term growth potential.Red seaweed dominates the global seaweed industry due to its high commercial value, versatility in food and pharmaceutical applications, and its role as a primary source of carrageenan, a widely used hydrocolloid.

Red seaweed, particularly varieties like Kappaphycus alvarezii and Eucheuma denticulatum, leads the global seaweed market primarily because of its exceptional commercial importance and wide-ranging applications across multiple industries. A significant factor behind its dominance is its role as the primary source of carrageenan, a natural polysaccharide extensively used as a gelling, thickening, and stabilizing agent in food products such as dairy, meat, and confectionery, as well as in beverages. Carrageenan derived from red seaweed also plays a crucial role in non-food sectors, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and biotechnology, where it is used for controlled drug delivery, skin care formulations, and laboratory culture media.

The adaptability of red seaweed to tropical and subtropical coastal environments allows for large-scale cultivation in countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, and China, which are global leaders in seaweed production. This scalability ensures a steady supply chain that meets the rising global demand. Additionally, red seaweed is rich in bioactive compounds such as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which enhance its value in functional foods, nutraceuticals, and dietary supplements, contributing to health and wellness trends worldwide.

Moreover, technological advancements in cultivation, harvesting, and processing methods have improved yield quality and reduced production costs, further solidifying red seaweed’s market position. Consumer preference for natural, plant-based ingredients has also boosted demand, as red seaweed-derived carrageenan and other extracts are perceived as safe and natural alternatives to synthetic additives.

Human consumption leads the global seaweed industry due to rising demand for nutritious, sustainable, and functional food products across health-conscious and traditional markets.

Seaweed is rich in essential nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, which makes it highly appealing to consumers seeking natural and functional foods that support immunity, gut health, and overall wellness. In regions like Japan, Korea, and China, seaweed has been consumed for centuries in various forms such as nori, wakame, and kelp, creating a stable and culturally embedded market. Beyond Asia, the growing trend of plant-based and alternative proteins in Europe, North America, and other regions has significantly increased the adoption of seaweed as a nutritious, low-calorie, and environmentally sustainable food ingredient.

Seaweed’s versatility allows it to be used in multiple formats including snacks, salads, soups, seasonings, and powders, as well as in processed foods such as bakery products, pasta, and dairy alternatives, expanding its reach across diverse consumer segments. The functional food trend further boosts its demand, as seaweed-derived bioactive compounds are increasingly recognized for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cardiovascular health benefits, making it a favored choice for dietary supplements and nutraceutical products.

Moreover, seaweed cultivation has a lower environmental footprint compared to terrestrial crops, requiring no freshwater, fertilizers, or arable land, which aligns with the global shift toward sustainable and eco-friendly food sources. Consumer awareness about climate change, ocean conservation, and sustainable nutrition has propelled the preference for seaweed as a responsible food choice. Technological advancements in processing, preservation, and flavor enhancement have also contributed to making seaweed products more palatable and convenient for everyday consumption, thereby broadening the target market beyond traditional consumers to include urban and international markets.

Dried forms of seaweed, including sheets, flakes, and whole, lead the global seaweed industry due to their long shelf life, convenience, and versatility in culinary and industrial applications.

Dried seaweed forms, such as sheets, flakes, and whole pieces, dominate the global seaweed industry because they offer a combination of practicality, versatility, and commercial value that aligns with both consumer and industrial demands. One of the most significant advantages of dried seaweed is its extended shelf life compared to fresh or frozen forms, making it easier to transport, store, and distribute globally without significant loss of nutritional content or quality. This durability is particularly important for international trade, as major seaweed-producing countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, and China can supply distant markets in Europe, North America, and other regions efficiently.

Additionally, dried forms are lightweight and compact, reducing shipping costs and facilitating large-scale export operations. From a consumer perspective, dried seaweed is convenient and versatile; sheets are commonly used for sushi, snacks, and seasoning, while flakes and whole pieces can be incorporated into soups, salads, and sauces. This adaptability to different culinary applications has driven its popularity in both traditional Asian diets and Western health food markets, where seaweed is increasingly marketed as a superfood.

Furthermore, dried seaweed retains most of its essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, which enhances its value in health-conscious food products and functional food formulations. The industrial demand for dried seaweed is also a major driver, as these forms are used as raw material for extracting hydrocolloids such as carrageenan, agar, and alginate, which serve as gelling, thickening, and stabilizing agents in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and biotechnology industries.

Aquaculture, or farmed seaweed, leads the global seaweed industry due to its controlled, scalable, and sustainable production that ensures consistent supply and quality.

Aquaculture, or farmed seaweed, dominates the global seaweed industry primarily because it offers a reliable and scalable method of production compared to wild-harvested seaweed, addressing both rising global demand and sustainability concerns. Farmed seaweed cultivation allows producers to control growing conditions, including water quality, depth, temperature, and nutrient availability, which ensures consistent yields, uniform quality, and reduced contamination risks. This predictability is crucial for supplying large-scale food, pharmaceutical, and industrial markets where quality standards and traceability are strictly required.

Leading seaweed-producing countries such as Indonesia, the Philippines, China, and South Korea have invested heavily in aquaculture techniques, establishing extensive seaweed farms that can produce high volumes throughout the year, independent of seasonal or environmental fluctuations that affect wild harvests. Aquaculture also enables the cultivation of high-value seaweed varieties, such as red seaweed for carrageenan extraction and other specialized products, supporting both food and non-food applications. In addition, farmed seaweed plays a key role in sustainable development and environmental conservation.

Unlike wild harvesting, which can lead to overexploitation and habitat degradation, aquaculture reduces pressure on natural seaweed populations and promotes ecosystem balance. Seaweed farms can also contribute to carbon sequestration, nutrient removal from coastal waters, and habitat creation for marine species, aligning with global efforts to mitigate climate change and enhance marine biodiversity.Asia Pacific leads the global seaweed industry due to favorable climatic conditions, abundant coastal resources, established aquaculture infrastructure, and high regional demand for food and industrial applications.

The Asia Pacific region dominates the global seaweed industry primarily because it combines ideal natural conditions with well-established production infrastructure and strong market demand, creating a competitive edge over other regions. The tropical and subtropical coastal waters of countries such as Indonesia, the Philippines, China, and South Korea provide optimal conditions for cultivating a wide variety of seaweed species, including red, brown, and green seaweeds. These warm waters, combined with nutrient-rich ocean currents, ensure high growth rates, superior quality, and year-round harvest opportunities, which are difficult to replicate in other parts of the world.

Furthermore, Asia Pacific has a long history of seaweed consumption and cultivation, giving it extensive traditional knowledge, cultural acceptance, and market familiarity, particularly in countries like Japan, Korea, and China where seaweed is a staple in diets and culinary practices. The region has also invested heavily in modern aquaculture techniques, including large-scale farming operations, mechanized harvesting, and improved drying and processing facilities, enabling producers to meet both domestic and global demand efficiently.

Asia Pacific’s dominance is further strengthened by its role as a global hub for high-value seaweed derivatives such as carrageenan, agar, and alginate, which are widely used in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial applications. These derivatives rely on a stable and abundant supply of raw seaweed, which the region can provide consistently due to its vast coastal areas and scalable aquaculture practices.

• October 2024: BASF announced that it has partnered with Acadian Plant Health™ in order to expand its BioSolutions portfolio by introducing seaweed-based biostimulants. With the help of Acadian's Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed technology, crop resilience to climate stress is enhanced. BASF will globally distribute these products to help in climate-smart agriculture and sustainable crop production.
• October 2024: BASF announced that it has partnered with Acadian Plant Health™ in order to expand its BioSolutions portfolio by introducing seaweed-based biostimulants. With the help of Acadian's Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed technology, crop resilience to climate stress is enhanced. These products will be distributed internationally by BASF to support sustainable crop production and climate-smart agriculture.
• October 2024: India, says Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, CMFRI, is capable of producing 9.7 million tonnes of seaweed in 342 locations. The new guidelines that the Union Government has framed aim at increasing the production of seaweed through imports of high-quality seed materials. It ensures that the same produces for the environment as well as for the coastal states economically.
• March 2024: Irish firm Simply Blue Group stamped its seal of approval to build the world's first commercial seaweed farm in the North Sea. The rough-and-tumble environment of an offshore wind array is not the easiest place to establish a new aquaculture venture, but the crowded North Sea provides seaweed farmers with few other options.
• March 2024: Sea6 Energy, a technology pioneer in the Blue Economy, recently launched the world's first large-scale mechanized tropical seaweed farm off Ekas, on the island of Lombok, Indonesia.
• October 2023: FlexSea, a startup with its roots at Imperial, announced the completion of a seed round worth Pound 3 Million (USD 3.77 Million) in equity and grants. The investment will help the company commercialize a range of sustainable packaging solutions that it has developed based on plastics derived from seaweed.