Tilapia: numbers, challenges and opportunities in world trade – World tilapia production: an increasingly central item in the global aquaculture vocabulary. With over 7 million tonnes estimated in 2024, this freshwater species drives the dynamics of supply and demand, directly influencing buyers, businesses and stakeholders in the international fish supply chain.
Asia drives global production
In 2024, Asia accounted for more than 67% of global tilapia production, with over 4.7 million tonnes. China retains the global lead, but it is Indonesia that has the fastest pace of growth. Its emerging role may soon redraw the balance of the Asian market, undermining China’s leadership.
The average global growth rate of tilapia production will be between 4% and 6% over the three-year period 2023-2025. Numbers that capture a steadily expanding segment, supported by public and private investment in infrastructure, technology and certification.
Africa and the Americas: stability and diversification
Africa contributes over 1.2 million tonnes, or 18% of the global total. Egypt, in particular, is confirmed as one of the world’s top three producers, despite substantially stable production. The African continent continues to invest in regional projects, also supported by European and multilateral programmes such as Horizon Europe and BlueInvest.
The Americas totalled around 800,000 tonnes (11%). Brazil stands out as a significant player in both domestic production and exports, while in the US the role of consumer market prevails.
Tilapia in Europe and the US: consumption and certifications
The US remains the world’s largest consumption market for tilapia, preferring low-cost frozen fillets, often from China, Indonesia and Brazil. However, hygiene standards, transparency and certifications are also becoming crucial in the US market.
The European Union is the second largest consumer market, but with different dynamics. The focus is on quality, sustainability and traceability. European supplies come largely from Indonesia and Vietnam, both countries that have adapted to the required standards, including ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) and Global GAP.
Compliance with certifications has become a precondition for entering European distribution circuits, opening up opportunities for operators who want to differentiate their offerings.
Export opportunities and new market segments
World tilapia production is rapidly adapting to new market demands. The Middle East, Korea and Japan offer interesting commercial spaces thanks to the demand for diversified products, such as smoked or portioned tilapia, intended for retail or catering.
This production is destined to grow further in the coming years, with particular attention to adaptation to regulated markets such as Europe. Although Italy is not a significant producer, it can play a role as a logistical and commercial hub for Southern Europe, exploiting processing and distribution skills.
For buyers, distributors and stakeholders in the seafood sector, understanding the dynamics of the global tilapia supply chain is no longer an option, but a necessity to remain competitive.
Tilapia: numbers, challenges and opportunities in world trade
