Seaweed Market Overview, 2025-30

The market for seaweed has experienced significant transformation, largely influenced by local demand that propelled practices and innovations. A case in point is the extensive use of red and brown seaweed in Asia, especially in Japan and South Korea, which resulted in advancements in aquaculture methods, mechanical harvesting, and processing after harvest. These techniques were subsequently implemented in Europe, Africa, and the Americas. In to traditional uses in food and animal feed, seaweed’s role has expanded into unconventional fields such as renewable energy, carbon absorption, and bioplastics, showcasing its potential in sustainable materials and strategies for combating climate change.

These emerging applications have widened the market, fostering investments in extraction methods and product variety. Worldwide, logistical and environmental obstacles like the transport of delicate biomass, seasonal fluctuations, and climate-related farming inconsistencies have sparked innovations in product forms such as drying, powdering, and extraction improving shelf life, cutting down on transportation costs, and preserving functional properties.

From a technical perspective, the primary classes of seaweed red Rhodophyta, brown Phaeophyceae, and green Chlorophyta feature unique biochemical traits; red seaweed contains a wealth of carrageenan and agar, brown varieties yield alginates and bioactive elements, while green types deliver proteins and antioxidants. These inherent characteristics shape their applications, ranging from food thickeners to pharmaceuticals and biofertilizers. Research and development patterns show a growing trend in cross-regional collaboration focused on genetic enhancements for better yield and stress resilience, improved processing efficiencies, and sustainability indicators like carbon emissions and water consumption.

Joint initiatives between Asia, Europe, and North America are perfecting farming systems, boosting bioactive extraction, and confirming environmental advantages. All these advancements illustrate a ecosystem where local demand, technological progress, and cross-sector applications collaboratively elevate seaweed from a conventional product to an essential element in sustainable industries across the globe.

According to the research report, " Global Seaweed Market Overview, 2030,", the Global Seaweed market was valued at USD 18.71 Billion in 2024. Recent initiatives feature the establishment of large offshore farming operations in countries like Norway, Chile, and Indonesia; investment rounds for startups in bioplastics and nutraceuticals across the US and EU; and trade agreements enhancing the export of seaweed from regions in East Africa and Southeast Asia to Europe and China. Both the World Bank and FAO have recognized seaweed as a crop beneficial for the climate, aiding in carbon capture, marine life diversity, and sustainable agricultural practices.

Major companies in the market include Cargill from the US, CP Kelco based in Denmark and the US, Algaia from France, Qingdao Gather Great Ocean from China, and Gelymar from Chile. Cargill and CP Kelco specialize in hydrocolloids for both the food and pharmaceutical industries, boasting strong ISO and HACCP certifications; Algaia focuses on sustainable sourcing and biorefinery approaches; Qingdao GGO is prominent in production volume and affordable exports; and Gelymar ensures traceability and eco-certification for upscale markets.

Potential areas for growth include initiatives for climate change mitigation such as carbon sinks and regenerative aquaculture, dietary trends favoring vegan and functional foods, and innovations in packaging like biodegradable films and coatings. Key factors driving this market include the growing consumer interest in sustainability, regulatory demands concerning plastics, and the need for resilient agricultural practices. Compliance frameworks established by the FAO for aquaculture, the Codex Alimentarius for food safety standards, ISO 22000 for processing, and WTO sanitary and phytosanitary guidelines influence trade access and ensure quality standards.

Market Drivers

• Climate Adaptability & Ecosystem Benefits Growing seaweed brings substantial ecological advantages it captures carbon, takes in extra nutrients, and enhances marine biodiversity. Unlike land farming, it does not need fresh water, fertilizers, or cultivable land making it suitable for areas affected by climate issues. Authorities and international organizations such as FAO, UNEP, World Bank are incorporating seaweed into strategies for the blue economy and carbon offset initiatives. Its contribution to reducing ocean acidification and nutrient pollution is gaining backing and financial support. Carbon credit programs in Indonesia, Chile, and Norway highlight seaweed’s importance in verified climate financing. This establishes seaweed as both a biomass and a nature-based remedy essential for investments attuned to environmental, social, and governance standards. The influence is not only ecological but also economic, as seaweed allows coastal communities to generate high yields with minimal inputs.
• Demand for Functional Ingredients Across Industries Seaweed’s biochemical diversity comprising ulvan, fucoidan, laminarin, and alginate fosters uses in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and agriculture. There is a consumer shift towards plant-based, gut-friendly, and natural products, driving the need for seaweed powders and extracts. Hydrocolloids like carrageenan and agar continue to be fundamental in processed foods, while bioactive compounds are becoming popular in wellness and skincare. Worldwide dietary movements like veganism, flexitarian diets, and immune-boosting trends are broadening the presence of seaweed in functional foods. The pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries are investigating seaweed for its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and metabolic properties. Its multifunctional nature makes seaweed a vital component for varied product lines.

Market Challenges

• Scattered Infrastructure & Processing Hurdles Several producing areas lack sufficient facilities for drying, milling, and extraction restricting large-scale output. In regions of Africa, South Asia, and island nations, artisanal sun-drying is prevalent, yet it limits shelf life and quality consistency. Cold chain logistics are insufficient, particularly in isolated coastal areas, impacting readiness for export. Emerging modular biorefineries and mobile processing options are being developed but suffer from lack of funding and uneven distribution. Post-harvest losses and risks of microbial spoilage make it harder to compete in high-end markets. Without unified infrastructure, producers face difficulties meeting traceability and quality standards. This issue is operational gaps in infrastructure hinder scalability, safety, and certification processes.
• Regulatory Challenges & Certification Hurdles Global commerce demands adherence to Codex Alimentarius, ISO 22000, HACCP, and WTO sanitary/phytosanitary guidelines. Approval for novel foods is slow, particularly within the EU, delaying the launch of new species and extracts in the market. Standards regarding heavy metals, labeling requirements, and safety information about specific species differ across various regions. New producers often lack the necessary institutional assistance for certification, traceability, and documentation for exports. This scenario creates obstacles for accessing high-margin markets such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and functional foods. Initiatives to unify standards by FAO, ASEAN, EU are in progress but still lack coherence. The challenge is regulatory inconsistent regulations limit integration and premium market positioning.

Market Trends

• Bioplastics & Innovative Circular Packaging Seaweed-based films, packets, and coatings are undergoing trials as compostable substitutes for petroleum-based plastics. Startups in Europe Notpla, Evoware, Asia Sea6 Energy, and Latin America are advancing biodegradable packaging solutions. Carrageenan and agar are being transformed into heat-resistant, water-soluble substances for use in food products and cosmetics. This movement is influenced by laws against plastics, the public's desire for low-carbon packaging, and branding commitments to environmental, social, and governance ESG standards. Packaging made from seaweed provides end-of-life advantages such as being biodegradable, safe for marine life, and compostable. The retail and hospitality industries are beginning to use cutlery, wrappers, and sachets made from seaweed. The trend is focused on materials seaweed is changing packaging through a design that promotes recycling.
• Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture IMTA Seaweed is increasingly grown alongside shellfish and finfish to enhance nutrient recycling and minimize ecological effects. IMTA practices are becoming more popular in countries like Norway, Canada, Chile, and those in Southeast Asia due to support from policies and research funding. These systems improve space utilization, ecosystem services, and provide varied income opportunities for coastal farmers. Seaweed takes up nitrogen and phosphorus found in fish waste, which helps to enhance water quality and lower feed expenses. IMTA aligns with marine spatial planning and various sustainability certifications such as ASC and MSC. This approach is being tested in tropical regions for continuous biomass production and stronger ecosystems. The trend is comprehensive IMTA incorporates seaweed into sustainable aquaculture systems. Green seaweed is the quickest expanding category within the seaweed market due to its swift growth cycle, biochemical versatility, and increasing applications in eco-friendly farming, functional foods, and beauty products.

Green seaweed especially types such as Ulva lactuca, Enteromorpha, and Caulerpa is rapidly becoming the leading category in the seaweed industry, pushed by its biological productivity and adaptability across different fields. In contrast to red and brown seaweeds, green varieties flourish in various salinity levels and temperature ranges, making them well-suited for tropical and subtropical farming systems. Its quick growth cycle often reaching maturity in just a few weeks facilitates high-yielding, low-effort cultivation, particularly in integrated multi-trophic aquaculture IMTA systems.

From a biochemical perspective, green seaweed is abundant in ulvan, chlorophyll, amino acids, and minerals, supporting its use in biofertilizers, animal nutrition, functional foods, and skincare products. In agriculture, bio stimulants derived from ulvan are gaining popularity for enhancing drought resistance and nutrient absorption, especially in areas affected by climate change. In the culinary world, green seaweed is being added to snacks, seasonings, and plant-based supplements because of its mild taste and high protein levels. The beauty and wellness industries utilize its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities in serums, masks, and topical treatments.

New processing techniques like freeze-drying and enzymatic extraction have created shelf-stable powders and emulsions, broadening its availability in markets. New businesses in Asia, Latin America, and Africa are expanding green seaweed farming for both local and international markets, aided by organizations like the FAO, Horizon Europe, and various national blue economy efforts.

The regulatory routes for green seaweed are generally simpler, with fewer restrictions on novel foods compared to red or brown seaweeds. With the merging of sustainability, health, and circular economy objectives, green seaweed’s adaptability, rich biochemical profile, and minimal ecological impact make it the fastest-growing type in the seaweed market connecting traditional uses with contemporary industrial needs.

The Other Applications category represents the rapidly expanding end-user sector in the seaweed market, driven by increased interest in eco-friendly bioactives, compostable materials, and low-emission industrial resources for sectors such as pharmaceuticals, packaging, and agriculture.

The Other Applications category, which includes pharmaceuticals, bioplastics, textiles, and various industrial uses, is growing more quickly than any other segment in the seaweed market due to the urgency for sustainability and innovation across different sectors. Compounds extracted from seaweed like carrageenan, agar, fucoidan, and ulvan are being utilized more frequently in pharmaceutical products because of their ability to combat viruses, reduce inflammation, and support immune functions. Biotechnology companies in Europe, Asia, and North America are channeling investments into drug delivery systems made from seaweed, wound healing products, and supplements for metabolic health.

At the same time, bioplastics produced from seaweed polysaccharides are being tested as compostable options to replace plastic from fossil fuels. Emerging companies such as Notpla UK, Evoware Indonesia, and Sea6 Energy India are creating seaweed-based wrappers, pouches, and coatings designed for food, beauty products, and agricultural applications, with support from venture funding and circular economy initiatives. In the agricultural sector, extracts from seaweed are being developed into bio stimulants and soil amendments that increase crop resilience while minimizing chemical use, in line with regenerative farming practices.

These benefits arise from the rapid growth of seaweed along with its low environmental impact and biochemical adaptability. Innovations in processing techniques, including enzymatic extraction, freeze-drying, and biorefinery processes, are producing high-quality, long-lasting products that can be used in industry. Authorities such as FAO, Codex Alimentarius, and ISO are defining standards for safety and quality, while WTO sanitary regulations influence trade access. Businesses utilizing these certifications are tapping into high-end markets and forming partnerships aligned with ESG principles.

As industries pursue sustainable, traceable, and multifunctional resources, the significance of seaweed is evolving from specialized to crucial driving advances in health, packaging, and sustainable farming. The Other Applications category embodies this shift by achieving the fastest growth through its connection to climate objectives, consumer behaviors, and industrial change.

Forms of seaweed that have been processed, such as powders and liquids, are rapidly expanding in the market due to their flexibility, long shelf life, and suitability for various applications in industrial sectors, health supplements, and beauty products.

Processed versions of seaweed especially in powder and liquid forms are seeing the most rapid development, propelled by their versatility across important industries and logistical benefits. In contrast to fresh or dried seaweed, powders and extracts provide consistent concentrations of bioactive compounds like carrageenan, fucoidan, ulvan, and laminarin, which makes them excellent for accurate dosing in medications, specialty foods, and beauty items. Their stability and convenience in transport allow for international shipping without the need for refrigerated storage, which is crucial for producers in Europe, North America, and East Asia.

In food and drink, powdered seaweed finds its way into protein mixes, seasoning blends, and plant-based dietary supplements, in line with the increasing demand for clean-label and vegan options. Liquid extracts are becoming popular in skincare products, functioning as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and moisturizing components in serums, masks, and creams.

In agriculture, seaweed in liquid form is created into bio stimulants and foliar sprays that improve crop durability and nutrient absorption, especially in areas affected by drought. Innovations in processing techniques, such as enzyme extraction, freeze-drying, and spray finishing, are producing high-quality, scalable seaweed products tailored to meet industrial requirements.

New businesses and biotech companies are utilizing these forms to break into high-end markets, enhanced by certifications like ISO 22000, USDA Organic, and EU Novel Foods. Moreover, processed varieties promote improved traceability, quality oversight, and adherence to regulations, which is vital for export activities and business-to-business connections. As markets seek eco-friendly and multifunctional resources, processed seaweed shapes a unique opportunity merging environmental advantages with business potential. Their advancement signifies a movement from basic biomass to refined, ready-to-use ingredients, making powders and liquids the most rapidly growing types in the seaweed industry.

Aquaculture is the leading and quickest-expanding method in the seaweed industry since it allows for large-scale, continuous production with measurable quality, addressing increasing needs in food, pharmaceutical, and industrial areas.

Aquaculture, especially in relation to cultivated seaweed, has emerged as the primary and rapidly advancing cultivation method around the world because of its ability to scale, environmental effectiveness, and compatibility with industry supply chains. In contrast to wild harvesting, which is limited by seasons and environmental factors, aquaculture permits regulated and high-output farming of valuable species such as Gracilaria, Kappaphycus, Ulva, and Saccharina. These kinds of seaweed are grown in coastal areas, open sea regions, and land-based environments throughout Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas, leading to reliable biomass production suitable for food, skincare, pharmaceutical, and packaging uses.

Farmed seaweed supports integrated multi-trophic aquaculture IMTA, where it is simultaneously cultivated with fish or shellfish to recycle nutrients and lower ecological footprints. This method is gaining popularity in nations such as Norway, Indonesia, Chile, and South Korea, backed by national blue economy strategies and climate-smart agricultural policies, aquaculture promotes traceability and adherence to regulations like HACCP, ISO 22000, and USDA Organic, which are essential for entering high-end export markets. Advances in technology, such as automated planting, drone surveillance, and modular drying systems, enhance productivity while lowering operating expenses.

Furthermore, cultivated seaweed aligns with eco-friendly objectives it captures carbon, does not need water or fertilizers, and improves coastal resilience. As international industries look for low-carbon and multifunctional resources, aquaculture presents a dependable, scalable choice that connects ecological care with economic success. Increasingly, governments, investors, and international organizations are funding seaweed aquaculture as part of initiatives for climate action, food security, and circular economies.

The combination of policy support, market needs, and technological growth positions aquaculture as not just the largest but also the fastest-growing farming method changing seaweed from a specialized resource into a vital asset. The Asia Pacific region is at the forefront of the seaweed market, thanks to its extensive coastlines, strong farming traditions, and large-scale processing systems in food, pharmaceutical, and hydrocolloid industries.

The Asia Pacific region is the primary player in the seaweed market, contributing more than 80% of production, influenced by a mix of environmental, cultural, and industrial elements. Nations such as China, Indonesia, South Korea, Japan, and the Philippines have long coastlines that provide ideal environments for the growth of productive species like Kappaphycus, Gracilaria, Saccharina, and Porphyra. These species cater to various sectors, including hydrocolloids like agar, carrageenan, and alginate, functional foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. The traditional use of seaweed in cuisines particularly in Japan and Korea has transformed into well-organized supply chains, backed by sophisticated methods for drying, milling, and extraction.

China is the leading exporter in terms of volume and cost efficiency, whereas South Korea and Japan focus on high-quality, traceable products aimed at health and wellness markets. Furthermore, Indonesia has significantly boosted its aquaculture through community farming initiatives and foreign investment, establishing itself as a major center for Kappaphycus and Eucheuma. The dominance of Asia Pacific is solidified by robust governmental backing, including national aquaculture strategies, financial support, and marine spatial planning that facilitate continuous production and readiness for export.

This region also enjoys proximity to key consumer markets such as China, India, ASEAN, and East Asia where there is a growing demand for plant-based, clean-label, and functional ingredients. The processing infrastructure is advanced, with integrated biorefineries generating powders, emulsions, and extracts for international supply chains. The regulatory systems are fairly streamlined, and many producers are compliant with HACCP, ISO 22000, and organic certifications. Research and development hubs in the region are making strides in strain selection, resistance to diseases, and farming systems resilient to climate change.

• In 2025, Symbrosia USA a startup located in Hawaii, has created a cattle feed made from seaweed that can cut methane emissions by as much as 77%. This feed, sourced from red algae, in government funding and backing from brands like Organic Valley and Ben & Jerry’s. This breakthrough establishes Hawaii as a frontrunner in eco-friendly seaweed farming.
• In 2025, Marine Biologics USA a new company, is turning seaweed into a fermented mixture called superCrudes, which can serve various purposes in food emulsifiers, cosmetics, and biomaterials. The firm aims to offer sustainable alternatives to materials derived from petroleum and plans to present its offerings at a Future Food Tech event in San Francisco.
• In 2025, Seafields UK is developing marine farms to capture and utilize sargassum seaweed before it washes ashore. This seaweed can be converted into biogas, biodegradable plastics, and fertilizers. True Blue Bay Resort in Grenada has successfully utilized biogas produced from sargassum to power bakery ovens, showcasing the potential of this project.
• In 2024, Sea Forest Australia a company from Tasmania, has been acknowledged by Fast Company as one of the most creative companies for its creation of SeaFeed, a seaweed-derived additive capable of lowering methane emissions in animals by up to 90%. This acknowledgment underscores the firm's notable role in climate technology and eco-friendly agriculture.
• In 2022, EU4Algae Platform EU is uniting various stakeholders committed to promoting algae-based solutions, including partnerships in bioplastics and advancements in artificial intelligence. This effort is advancing the seaweed sector towards the future by encouraging innovation and sustainable methods.
• In 2021, Cargill USA introduced a new seaweed powder made from Gracilaria red seaweed within its WavePure ADG product line. This ingredient is utilized to create a creamy and smooth consistency in dairy products, providing thickening and gelling capabilities.

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