Southern Europe consumes EUR 5.5 billion worth of shrimp annually – The shrimp market in Southern Europe is booming, positioning itself as one of the continent’s most strategic and dynamic sectors. According to Shrimp Insights, southern EU countries imported 332,000 tonnes of shrimp from non-EU suppliers in 2023, with Spain and France leading the way in terms of import volume and value.
Ecuador and Venezuela leading exports
Ecuador dominates the market as the main supplier of shrimp to Spain, accounting for 77% of its imports of white shrimp, and to France, where it achieves a 32% share.
Alongside Ecuador, Venezuela has experienced extraordinary growth: shrimp exports to France have almost tripled since 2018, bringing the country to account for 9% of Spanish imports and 21% of French imports in 2023. However, the recent export licence blockade for the Lamar Group, imposed by the Venezuelan government, is generating uncertainty in the sector.
A market worth EUR 5.5 billion
With an annual shrimp consumption worth EUR 5.5 billion, Southern Europe – comprising Spain, France, Italy, Portugal and Greece – is the largest shrimp market in Europe. Spain is at the top with a market share of EUR 1.9 billion, followed by France with EUR 1.7 billion.
Spain: a trade hub for the EU
Spain stands out not only for its high import volume, but also for its role as a trade hub in Southern Europe. In 2023, it re-exported 40,000 tonnes of shrimps to other EU member states.
The country also shows remarkable diversification: while white shrimps account for 81% of French imports, Spain devotes 30% of its imports to Argentine red shrimps (Pleoticus muelleri), a delicacy that strengthens its leading position in the sector.
The shrimp market in Southern Europe therefore continues to grow, driven by increasing demand and a growing focus on product quality. Ecuador and Venezuela remain key suppliers, but recent geopolitical tensions and regulatory challenges could influence the import-export landscape in the coming years.
With the value of consumption steadily increasing and an established trade infrastructure, the shrimp sector is set to maintain its leading role in Europe’s blue economy.
Southern Europe consumes EUR 5.5 billion worth of shrimp annually
