Market Trends of Middle East and Africa Canned Seafood Industry
Growing Popularity For Seafood Among Meat Products
- In recent years, there has been a growing trend among consumers towards convenience foods, driven by factors such as busy lifestyles, increasing disposable income, and a growing working population. Additionally, there has been an increase in consumer demand for sustainable seafood due to its health benefits and longer shelf life. As a result, consumers are increasingly opting for various seafood and meat products.
- According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), canned seafood products such as tuna, shrimp, sardines, and other similar products are essential foods in regions such as the Middle East and Africa. Moreover, the Middle East region is experiencing a rise in tourism, leading to an increase in demand for canned seafood in restaurants, cafes, and other food service channels.
- In 2022, according to the Government of Dubai, data, 14.36 million international tourists visited Dubai, which is expected to continue to grow. Therefore, as tourism continues to increase in the Middle East and Africa, the demand for canned seafood is also expected to rise, particularly in the food service sector.
Africa Holds largest segment in the Market
- There has been a significant increase in demand for canned food, especially canned fish, in Africa in recent years. This trend can be attributed to a growing number of consumers who are opting for canned fish due to its affordability and longer shelf life, making it an increasingly popular protein source. The increased focus on health and wellness globally has also played a role in driving the demand for animal-sourced proteins, including canned tuna, shrimp, and other seafood products.
- Canned seafood products are also gaining popularity in Africa because they are cheaper than red meat. This affordability factor, combined with the rising urban population in South Africa, has been a major driver of the canned food market in the region. According to World Bank data, as of 2021, South Africa's urban population accounted for 68% of the total population.
- Furthermore, the growth of the tourism industry in Africa is also contributing to the growth of the canned food market. With more tourists visiting the region, the demand for canned seafood products has increased as they are a convenient and easy-to-prepare option for travelers. Overall, the increasing demand for canned food, especially canned fish, in Africa is driven by a combination of affordability, convenience, and health and wellness trends.