How Fish Trading Is Evolving in 2025

The fish-trading industry in 2025 stands at a crossroads: rising global demand meets increasing regulatory pressure, supply-chain disruption, and a push for greater sustainability. For companies engaged in trading seafood—whether for domestic markets or export—understanding this evolving landscape is critical.

1. Global consumption & trade dynamics Global consumption of aquatic animal

products is projected to rise, though at a slower pace than in prior years. OECD For example, growth in export volumes for fish and other aquatic foods is expected to reach about 7.1% by 2034 from current levels. OECD Regionally, Asia will account for roughly three-quarters of the increase in consumption. OECD For exporters, this means growing opportunities in Asia and emerging markets—but also stronger competition and greater need for differentiation.

2. Export-import headwinds & opportunities

Many trading companies are facing rising costs (fuel, logistics), shipping delays and trade-policy uncertainty. For example, in 2025 the U.S. imposed higher tariffs on seafood imports, which has ripple effects across global supply chains. ACT Capital Advisors On the other hand, for exporters who can meet new market standards and pivot to value-added products (rather than raw bulk), there are considerable opportunities. For instance, in Vietnam the seafood export industry is projected to hit ~US$11 billion in 2025, driven by shrimp, pangasius and tuna. seafood.vasep.com.vn+1 For an Indonesian company, this means benchmarking against neighbouring exporters and focusing on niches or high-quality segments.

3. Export-import headwinds & opportunities

Technology continues to reshape fish trading:

Cold-chain monitoring (IoT sensors) to ensure optimal freshness during transport and minimise spoilage.
Traceability solutions (blockchain, QR tagging) to satisfy consumer and regulatory demands for origin, sustainability and safety.
Data-driven supply-chain decisions: Predicting demand, optimising logistics, reducing waste. These tech tools are no longer optional—they are increasingly required for premium markets and export certification.

4. Sustainability, regulation & resource constraints

Sustainability remains a central theme in 2025. Global regulatory frameworks are tightening, especially around illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, seafood certifications and ecosystem protection. OECD For example, rising raw-material shortages (e.g., in shrimp farming) and climate impacts (changing sea temperatures, weather events) are affecting availability and cost. vietfishmagazine.com As an exporter, integrating sustainable sourcing, eco-certifications and transparent practices will increasingly influence market access and pricing.

5. Strategic focus for companies in 2025

For a company active in fish trading in 2025, here are key strategic points to focus on:

Diversify markets: Don’t rely solely on traditional export destinations; explore growth in Asia Pacific, Middle East and other emerging regions.
Add value: Move beyond raw catch exports to processed, packaged, ready-to-cook or branded seafood products.
Invest in tech & logistics: Cold chain, traceability, quality assurance—these reduce risk and increase premiumability.
Ensure sustainability and compliance: Certifications, audits, eco-labels, responsible sourcing are increasingly expected by buyers.
Stay agile: Be ready for policy changes (tariffs, trade agreements), supply-chain disruptions and price volatility.

Conclusion

The fish-trading landscape in 2025 is both challenging and full of opportunity. Companies that can combine global market awareness, technological readiness, sustainability commitment and value-added products will be best placed to thrive. For those still operating in legacy models, now is the time to evolve—or risk being left behind.