Middle East and Africa Seaweed Market Outlook, 2030

In the regions of the Middle East and Africa, coastal areas such as East Africa, the Red Sea, and the Gulf have a deep-rooted relationship with seaweed, starting with uses for basic needs, local diets, and traditional healing. Historically, communities by the coast would gather seaweed to use as food, create small businesses, and for health-related purposes, which formed a base of wisdom and practices that eventually evolved into structured commercial activities. In nations like Tanzania, Kenya, and Sudan, small farmers began growing types like Kappaphycus alvarezii to satisfy increasing market needs, transforming local knowledge into profit-making opportunities.

Environmental issues in MEA, such as high salt levels, dry climates, and varying water quality, have shaped the creation of adaptive farming methods. Innovations now include the selection of resilient seaweed varieties that can thrive in tough conditions, the use of shading and adding nutrients, and the application of integrated farming methods to sustain productivity. Species that thrive in MEA regions are chosen based on their growth rate, resilience, nutritional content, or industrial use Kappaphycus alvarezii and Eucheuma denticulatum are grown primarily for carrageenan extraction, and native seaweeds are being looked at for local eating and animal feed.

Attributes like fast growth, high carrageenan output, and adaptability to salty and warm waters significantly impact profitability and market success. Research and development initiatives in the area often involve partnerships with local universities, NGOs, and international aid groups, which offer technical training, financial support, and access to processing technologies, aiding communities in expanding small farming operations and enhancing product quality. These initiatives also emphasize building local business skills, fostering sustainable practices, and connecting producers to both regional and markets.

According to the research report, " Middle East and Africa Seaweed Market Outlook, 2030,", the Middle East and Africa Seaweed market is anticipated to grow at 7.39% CAGR from 2025 to 2030. The UAE is expected to emerge as the quickest-growing nation in the region, fueled by a rising interest in seaweed-based products. Recent efforts aimed at enhancing seaweed farming and exports include initiatives led by the government in Kenya and Tanzania, where seaweed cultivation has turned into a viable means of support for coastal populations. These initiatives have enhanced local facilities and granted financial independence to families.

Major participants in the MEA seaweed market include international firms like Cargill alongside local businesses such as ALGOLESKO and Raw Seaweeds. They provide a variety of goods, from raw seaweed and extractions for cosmetics and food to value-added products like seaweed snacks and biofertilizers. Their commercial strategies frequently involve collaborations with local farmers to guarantee sustainable sourcing and strengthen community ties.The MEA area offers multiple prospects in the seaweed industry, such as job creation for coastal youth, production of biofertilizers, animal feed, and export to high-end markets.

Seaweed cultivation is ecologically sustainable, needing no fresh water, fertilizers, or land, making it an appealing solution for tackling food insecurity and climate change. Adhering to regulations and obtaining certifications is essential for entering markets. Exporters typically need certifications like Halal, FSSC 22000, IFS, BRC, and GLOBALG.A.P. These endorsements ensure food safety and boost market credibility, making it easier to engage in international trade.

Market Drivers

• Increased Need for Eco-Friendly Agricultural ProductsCountries in the MEA region are embracing biofertilizers and biostimulants derived from seaweed to enhance soil quality, improve resistance to drought, and boost crop production. Extracts from seaweed provide natural aids for growth and better withstand stress, supporting the goals of climate-smart agriculture in dry areas. Governments in Morocco, Kenya, and South Africa are encouraging organic growing and sustainable methods, fostering a market for low-input biomass. Local experiments using Sargassum and Ulva have yielded positive outcomes in food crops and horticulture, increasing interest among farmers.
• Development of Coastal Resources & Growth of Aquaculture The shores of the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Indian Ocean feature various native species suitable for farming, such as Gracilaria, Kappaphycus, and Hypnea. Nations like Tanzania, Oman, and Madagascar are advancing seaweed cultivation through community-led aquaculture initiatives and foreign investments. Seaweed is being incorporated into marine spatial planning and blue economy frameworks, particularly in island regions. Its minimal requirements for freshwater and land make it advantageous for coastal economies with limited resources.

Market Challenges

• Scarce Processing Facilities & Inadequate Cold Chain Systems Many areas in the MEA lack centralized facilities for drying, milling, and extraction, hindering production that adds value. Common practices like artisanal sun-drying affect the longevity and quality required for industrial applications. Cold chain infrastructures are insufficient, particularly in isolated coastal areas, which impairs readiness for exports. Investment in mobile processing units and modular biorefineries is still in early stages.
• Regulatory Disparities & Barriers to Market AccessOnly a few nations have established formal standards or safety protocols for seaweed, complicating trade and certification processes. Gaining access to premium markets necessitates compliance with HACCP, ISO, and phytosanitary standards, which many producers find difficult. Limits on heavy metals and approvals for species differ widely, resulting in obstacles for cross-border trade. Efforts toward regional standardization are in progress but are slow and irregular.

Market Trends

• Localized Developments in Skincare & Functional Food Products Businesses in Egypt, Kenya, and Mauritius are creating seaweed-infused skincare products, wellness teas, and enriched snacks. Species such as Ulva and Hypnea are valued for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics. Local branding and eco-certification efforts are helping to market these products to both local and diaspora audiences. Women-led cooperatives are significantly contributing to product development and community involvement.
• Global Partnerships & Capacity Enhancement Collaborations with organizations like FAO, UNEP, and EU Horizon-linked initiatives are promoting training, research, and market expansion. Universities in South Africa, Morocco, and Tanzania are investigating strain selection, disease resistance, and extraction methods. International investors are testing scalable farms and processing facilities, especially in East Africa and the Gulf. These partnerships are merging traditional knowledge with modern industrial advancements, opening new regional value chains. Red seaweed leads the MEA market due to its valuable hydrocolloid’s agar, carrageenan, robust export demand, and suitability to local coastal habitats.

Red seaweed represents the largest portion of the seaweed industry in the Middle East and Africa MEA, fueled by its economic usefulness, biochemical properties, and compatibility with regional oceanic settings. Varieties like Gracilaria, Hypnea, and Gelidium are extensively farmed or sourced from coastal areas in countries such as Tanzania, Madagascar, Oman, and Morocco. These red seaweeds are highly regarded for their hydrocolloids agar and carrageenan which are utilized as gelling, thickening, and stabilizing agents in various sectors, including food production, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

A strong international market for these substances, particularly from Europe and Asia, has established MEA as an important supplier, with export-focused farming practices rising in popularity in East Africa and the Gulf region. The ability of red seaweed to thrive in warm waters and fluctuating salinity levels makes it well-suited for aquaculture in tropical and subtropical areas, where infrastructure and fresh water may be scarce. Community-supported farming initiatives in Zanzibar and coastal Kenya have boosted the production of Eucheuma and Kappaphycus, aided by non-governmental organizations and overseas buyers.

Facilities for processing in Madagascar and Morocco are growing to create semi-refined carrageenan and agar for overseas markets, while local startups are investigating red seaweed extracts for skincare and wellness uses. Furthermore, red seaweed's significant fiber and mineral content is being utilized in functional food items and livestock feed, contributing to local aims for food security and sustainable farming practices. Collaborative research and development with organizations in South Africa and Egypt are improving strain selection, yield enhancement, and post-harvest processes.

As MEA nations incorporate seaweed into their blue economy policies, the biochemical worth, export capabilities, and environmental adaptability of red seaweed establish it as a fundamental element of regional marine biomass growth. Its prominence illustrates both economic rationale and ecological alignment, positioning red seaweed as the most commercially valuable and widely cultivated variety throughout the MEA area.

The greatest user group in the MEA seaweed market is human consumption, driven by an increasing thirst for nutrient-packed, plant-based foods and traditional cooking methods among coastal and island communities.

Human consumption dominates the MEA seaweed market, spurred by a combination of cultural heritage, health awareness, and changing food trends. In East Africa, island regions such as Zanzibar and Madagascar have historically included seaweed in their local meals whether fermented, dried, or added to stews appreciating its richness in minerals, iodine, and benefits for digestion. These traditions are now being expanded and organized through community aquaculture initiatives and cooperatives led by women, which supply regional markets with dried Eucheuma, Ulva, and Gracilaria.

In North Africa and the Gulf, the growing awareness of health and the rise in demand for plant-based foods are boosting the popularity of snacks, teas, and supplements that include seaweed. Its low-calorie and high-fiber nature makes seaweed appealing to those managing diabetes and weight, and its umami taste aids in reducing salt usage in processed foods.

Emerging businesses in Egypt, Kenya, and Mauritius are creating functional food products such as seaweed-based crackers, enriched flours, and health drinks aiming at urban customers and the diaspora. Moreover, food security initiatives are investigating seaweed as a strong crop for areas vulnerable to malnutrition due to its rapid growth and low resource requirements.

The strategic position of MEA also facilitates the export of edible seaweed to Europe and Asia, where there is increasing demand for sustainable and traceable sources. New processing methods like solar drying, freeze-drying, and powdering have enhanced the shelf life and convenience of seaweed, increasing access for people living inland. Local governments and NGOs are backing food safety education and compliance with HACCP to tap into high-end markets. As climate change impacts agriculture and eating habits, the adaptability, nutritional benefits, and cultural significance of seaweed establish it as a key component of MEA's changing food scene cementing human consumption as the leading and most established use sector within the region's seaweed market.

Dried seaweed varieties lead the MEA market because they are inexpensive to process, have a long shelf life, and are suitable for local, culinary, and export uses in areas with poor cold chain infrastructure.

In the Middle East and Africa MEA, the largest share is held by dried forms of seaweed like sheets, flakes, and whole pieces due to various practical, financial, and cultural reasons. Drying is the easiest and most affordable way to preserve seaweed among coastal areas in Tanzania, Zanzibar, Madagascar, and parts of North Africa, where cold chain facilities are limited or unreliable. Artisanal producers commonly use techniques like sun-drying and rack-drying, allowing them to offer shelf-stable products to local markets and smaller processors. These dried seaweed forms are crucial to traditional diets, particularly in island nations, where they are added to soups, stews, and fermented meals.

In North Africa and the Gulf regions, dried Ulva and Gracilaria are becoming more popular in teas, seasonings, and health blends, reflecting the increasing interest in plant-based, nutritious ingredients. Dried products are also preferred in export trades for their transport ease, lighter weight, and durability perfect for sending in bulk to Asia and Europe. Dried seaweed is adaptable; it can be ground into powders, rehydrated for cooking, or processed for hydrocolloids and bioactive compounds. Local cooperatives and startup companies are marketing dried flakes and sheets for retail, often focusing on the needs of diaspora communities and health-conscious shoppers.

Dried varieties need less energy compared to freeze-drying or liquid extraction, making them sustainable and cost-effective for smaller producers. Efforts by governments and NGOs are aimed at enhancing drying hygiene, traceability, and packaging to meet international export requirements. As the seaweed market in MEA develops, dried forms continue to be the foundation of its value chain, linking traditional methods with modern market needs and providing a scalable, low-technology option for both local use and trade.

Aquaculture is the leading and quickest-growing method of cultivating seaweed in the MEA market due to its ability to scale, resilience to climate change, and its support for local blue economy initiatives and food security efforts.

Aquaculture, particularly in relation to farmed seaweed, is swiftly becoming the major cultivation approach throughout the Middle East and Africa MEA. This trend is influenced by its ability to scale, its compatibility with ecological considerations, and its strategic fit with regional growth plans. In contrast to seasonal wild harvesting, which is limited by ecological factors, aquaculture offers the advantage of continuous production of valuable species like Gracilaria, Hypnea, and Ulva. This controlled production is especially prominent in coastal areas of Tanzania, Zanzibar, Oman, and Madagascar, which have favorable conditions such as warm waters and high nutrient levels suitable for lagoon and rope-based farming.

Community-driven aquaculture, often aided by NGOs and women’s groups, has expanded significantly in East Africa, catering to both local consumers and export markets. Authorities are now incorporating seaweed into broader marine spatial planning and blue economy strategies, recognizing its contributions to carbon absorption, water cleansing, and sustainable economic opportunities. Aquaculture also promotes integrated systems where seaweed is grown alongside shellfish or fish to enhance nutrient recycling and lessen environmental footprints. Technological advancements like modular drying equipment, farm monitoring via GPS, and affordable hatchery systems are boosting yields and minimizing losses after harvest.

Research initiatives from institutions in South Africa, Egypt, and Kenya are improving the selection of strains, disease resistance, and biochemical analysis for use in industrial contexts. There is a growing preference for farmed seaweed because of its traceability, dependability in quality, and adherence to food safety standards key factors when entering high-value markets in Europe and Asia. As MEA nations aim to diversify their economies and create climate-resilient food systems, aquaculture stands out as a low-investment, high-yield solution that connects traditional practices with innovative bioeconomic objectives.

Its expansion signifies a blend of ecological fit, supportive policies, and market needs establishing farmed seaweed as the quickest and most scalable farming approach in the region. Saudi Arabia takes the lead in the MEA seaweed industry thanks to its strategic investments in marine biotechnology, aquaculture in the Red Sea, and large-scale processing that supports the sustainability objectives of Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia is at the leading edge of the MEA seaweed industry by utilizing its coastline along the Red Sea, strong infrastructure, and a national focus on diversifying its bioeconomy. In line with Vision 2030, the Kingdom is making substantial investments in eco-friendly aquaculture and marine biotechnology, with seaweed recognized as a key resource for food, pharmaceuticals, and environmental uses. The warm and nutrient-laden waters of the Red Sea aid in growing valuable species such as Gracilaria, Ulva, and Hypnea, which are cultivated in regulated environments to ensure reliable yields and quality.

Saudi Arabia’s dominance is further supported by its industrial capabilities; cutting-edge facilities for drying, milling, and transforming seaweed into powders, emulsions, and hydrocolloids are taking shape in coastal economic zones. Collaborations with international biotech companies and academic institutions are helping to speed up research and development in areas like strain selection, disease resistance, and biochemical analysis, allowing for specialized applications in cosmetics, nutraceuticals, and biodegradable packaging.

The Saudi Aquaculture Society and the National Fisheries Development Program are energetically encouraging seaweed farming as part of integrated multi-trophic aquaculture IMTA, which boosts nutrient recycling and strengthens ecosystem resilience. Regulations are adapting to support traceability, HACCP standards, and export readiness, with Saudi producers aiming for premium markets in Europe and Asia. Seaweed is being investigated as a climate-smart option for desert farming, employed in biofertilizers and soil conditioners to enhance water retention and crop robustness.

As the Kingdom moves towards a circular, low-carbon economy, seaweed presents a scalable and environmentally friendly resource that aligns with both ecological and economic needs. Saudi Arabia’s combination of strategic vision, marine resources, and industrial goals positions it as the cornerstone of the MEA seaweed market, ready to lead in regional innovation and supply.

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