Bivalve Market Share, Size & Trends Analysis Report by Species Type (Clams, Cockles & Arkshells, Mussels, Oysters, Scallops, Pectens Oral), By Region, & By Segment Forecasts, 2024-2032

Bivalve Market Dynamics

Market Drivers

Several factors are driving the expansion of the bivalve market. There is an increasing demand for bivalves to meet nutritional needs. More people are turning to aquaculture to source bivalves, and developing economies are showing a growing appetite for these shellfish. Innovations and new applications involving bivalves are also contributing to market growth. Bivalves are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for human health, particularly cardiovascular health. The introduction of new products by market players is expected to significantly boost revenue over the forecast period.

Market Challenges

However, the bivalve market faces several challenges. There is low demand in many countries, and coastal contamination leads to poor water quality, which affects bivalve farming. Additionally, ocean acidification poses a growing threat. Despite attempts to expand mussel farming into open seas, the industry faces high production costs, low output, and remains largely a niche luxury market. The COVID-19 pandemic led to increased demand for non-food items such as soap, paper towels, and hand sanitizers, affecting the bivalve market indirectly.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for bivalves was high. Bivalve farmers maintained their stocks during the pandemic, hoping for a favorable trading climate. However, many manufacturers halted operations due to worker shortages, mass production shutdowns, and supply chain disruptions. This led to increased demand for other food products like fish and meat.

Bivalve Market Segmentation

The bivalve market is segmented based on species:

• Clams
• Cockles & Ark Shells
• Mussels
• Oysters
• Scallops
• Pectens

Over the course of the forecast period, the clams segment is expected to experience significant growth. Clams are classified as a kind of shellfish that are a part of the mollusk family. Furthermore, clams are typically found in freshwater and saltwater environments, and they are distinguished by the hard shells that enclose the soft-bodied animals within. Moreover, these shellfish are harvested for human consumption and are a common seafood option in many international cuisines.

Bivalve Market Key Insights

• Oyster Bivalve Market: The oyster segment is expected to be a major contributor to the global bivalve market in 2022. Oysters are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, minerals, zinc, copper, niacin, and riboflavin, which support muscle building, cardiovascular health, bone strength, immunity, and weight loss. The growing consumer preference for bivalves and the popularity of thick-shelled seafood are driving market expansion. Oysters come in various types, and maintaining consistent quality is crucial for market growth.

• Cockles and Ark Shells Segment: This segment is projected to grow rapidly in the global bivalve market. Cockles and ark shells are excellent sources of protein, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids, which help alleviate acid indigestion, heartburn, abdominal pain, and reduce cancer risks, especially in countries like the US, Germany, the UK, China, and India.

Competitive Landscape

The bivalve market includes several major players:

• France Naissain
• Satmar
• Bang Island Mussels
• Fowey Shellfish Company Ltd
• Menai Oysters Limited
• Inverlussa Marine Services
• Azura Atlantic
• Oceano Fresco, S.A.
• Blue Harvest Fisheries LLC
• Camanchaca SA
• Dongwon Group
• Pacific Seafood Group
• FCF Fishery Co. Ltd.
• Future SeaFoods Inc.
• Glenmar Shellfish Ltd.
• Gortons Inc.
• High Liner Foods Inc.
• Joe Pattis Seafood Co.
• Ocean Choice International
• PEI Mussel King
• Taylor Shellfish Farms Inc.
• Thai Union Group PCL
• The Great Little Harbour Seafood Co.

Recent Developments

In March 2023, Cooke Inc. signed a formal purchase agreement to acquire Slade Gorton, a major US seafood distributor, importer, and manufacturer. This acquisition allows Cooke to supply wholesale and retail customers with superior fresh and frozen fish in every state through a completely vertically integrated seafood harvesting, processing, sales, and distribution network with 4,000 employees.

Regional Analysis

The bivalve market is divided into several regions:

• North America: The US, Canada, Mexico
• Europe: Germany, the UK, France, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe
• Asia-Pacific: China, Japan, India, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Rest of Asia Pacific
• Latin America: Brazil, Argentina, Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa: GCC Countries, South Africa, Rest of the Middle East and Africa

Regional Market Growth

The Asia Pacific region is expected to hold the largest market share in terms of revenue in the near future. The increasing popularity of bivalves as a healthy and sustainable food source, rising demand for bivalves as a whole food source, growing bivalve aquaculture, and increasing demand in emerging markets are driving this growth. Additionally, increased spending on bivalve product initiatives is expected to boost market growth during the forecast period. Europe is also anticipated to grow rapidly due to increased disposable income, awareness of seafood’s health benefits, overall population growth, and rising healthcare expenses.