The global commercial seaweed market is expanding rapidly due to its applications in various industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and agriculture. Seaweed’s nutritional value, environmental sustainability, and functional benefits are contributing to its growing demand, especially in the production of plant-based products.
The market is predicted to reach USD 18.66 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 6.52%. The sector is also benefitting from the increasing demand for organic products and the push for sustainable agriculture practices.
- Health & Nutrition: The rising awareness of seaweed as a rich source of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, is boosting its demand in food and beverages.
- Sustainability & Environment: Seaweed cultivation is eco-friendly, as it requires no freshwater or pesticides and helps absorb carbon dioxide, aligning with global sustainability goals.
- Cosmetics & Personal Care: Seaweed is increasingly being used in skincare and personal care products due to its moisturizing, anti-aging, and detoxifying properties.
- Agricultural Applications: Seaweed extracts are being widely used in fertilizers and animal feed as a natural growth promoter and soil conditioner, contributing to the organic farming trend.
- Red Seaweed: Widely used in the food and cosmetics industries, with high demand for agar and carrageenan extraction.
- Brown Seaweed: Predominantly used in agriculture and for alginate production, with increasing use in pharmaceuticals.
- Green Seaweed: Primarily consumed as food and in supplements due to its nutritional benefits.
- Food & Beverages: Seaweed is popular in culinary applications, particularly in Asia, where it’s consumed in various forms such as nori, wakame, and kombu.
- Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics: Seaweed extracts are increasingly used in anti-inflammatory and skin-repair products.
- Agriculture & Animal Feed: Seaweed-based fertilizers and feeds are gaining traction due to their organic and nutrient-rich profiles.
Key Players & Strategies:
- Cargill, Incorporated Strategy:
嘉吉
is focusing on expanding its seaweed sourcing network and improving its sustainable sourcing practices. In 2024, the company is increasing its investments in sustainable farming and traceability technologies to ensure the ethical sourcing of seaweed, particularly from Asia and South America.
- Acadian Seaplants Limited Strategy:
Acadian Seaplants
is a leader in seaweed-based agricultural products. In 2024, the company is focusing on R&D investments in new seaweed species and their applications in biostimulants for agriculture. They are also exploring new geographic markets in Latin America and Africa for expansion.
- DuPont de Nemours, Inc. Strategy:
杜邦
is leveraging its expertise in marine biotechnology to develop new seaweed-based ingredients for use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. The company is also focused on strengthening partnerships with regional seaweed cultivators to ensure a stable supply chain.
- Seaweed Energy Solutions AS Strategy:
Seaweed Energy
is pioneering efforts in the biofuel sector by exploring the use of seaweed as a renewable energy source. In 2024, the company is working on scaling its seaweed-to-energy projects across Europe and Asia, while also focusing on the bio-packaging industry as a sustainable alternative to plastics.
- Irish Seaweeds Strategy:
Irish Seaweeds
is focusing on the organic and natural food industry, targeting the growing demand for seaweed-based superfoods. In 2024, the company is enhancing its e-commerce platform to cater to the expanding health-conscious consumer base globally.
- Sustainable Farming Practices: As seaweed farming requires minimal resources, it is being promoted as a key solution to global food security issues and environmental challenges.
- Plant-Based Diets: With the rise of vegan and vegetarian diets, seaweed is gaining popularity as a natural source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Expansion of Industrial Applications: Besides food and cosmetics, seaweed is being increasingly used in biofuels, biodegradable packaging, and pharmaceuticals, expanding its commercial appeal.
- Asia-Pacific dominates the commercial seaweed market, with countries like China, Japan, and South Korea being major consumers and producers of seaweed.
- North America and Europe are seeing growing demand for seaweed in health food products, biostimulants, and eco-friendly packaging solutions.
The global commercial seaweed market is driven by innovations in sustainable farming, expanding applications, and increasing consumer awareness of seaweed’s health benefits.
For inquiries or further information, please contact:
Next?Move?Strategy?Consulting
