India Fish Farming Market Size, Share, Trends and Forecasts 2031

Key Findings

• The India Fish Farming Market is expanding steadily due to rising demand for sustainable and high-protein food sources.

• Aquaculture is increasingly preferred over wild capture fishing to address overfishing and food security concerns in India.

• Technological advancements in water quality management and fish nutrition are improving productivity and survival rates.

• Government support and policy initiatives are encouraging organized fish farming practices in India.

• Freshwater fish farming dominates the market, while marine and brackish water farming are gaining traction.

• Growing exports of farmed fish are strengthening the economic contribution of the sector in India.

• The adoption of recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) is improving efficiency and environmental sustainability.

• Rising consumer awareness about healthy diets is supporting long-term demand for farmed fish products.

India Fish Farming Market Size and Forecast

The India Fish Farming Market is projected to grow from USD 310.4 billion in 2025 to USD 520.7 billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 9.0% during the forecast period. Growth is driven by increasing global fish consumption, declining wild fish stocks, and the expansion of commercial aquaculture operations. In India, population growth and urbanization are accelerating demand for affordable animal protein sources.

Technological improvements in breeding, feed efficiency, and disease control are enhancing output and profitability. With strong policy backing and export potential, fish farming is expected to remain a cornerstone of food security and rural livelihoods in India.

Introduction

Fish farming, also known as aquaculture, involves the breeding, rearing, and harvesting of fish in controlled environments. In India, fish farming plays a vital role in meeting domestic protein needs and supporting rural economies. It includes freshwater, brackish water, and marine farming systems that cater to diverse species.

Advances in aquaculture practices are helping farmers improve yields while minimizing environmental impact. As global seafood demand continues to rise, fish farming has become a strategic industry for sustainable food production in India.

Future Outlook

By 2031, fish farming in India is expected to become more technology-driven and environmentally sustainable. Automation, digital monitoring systems, and AI-based feeding solutions will enhance farm efficiency and reduce operational losses. Expansion of value-added fish products will improve profitability and market reach.

Government-led initiatives will strengthen infrastructure, cold chains, and export capabilities. With rising investments and innovation, the fish farming market in India will continue its transformation into a modern and resilient food production sector.

India Fish Farming Market Trends

• Adoption of Advanced Aquaculture Technologies
  Fish farmers in India are increasingly adopting technologies such as automated feeding systems, water quality sensors, and real-time monitoring tools. These technologies help optimize feed usage, reduce mortality rates, and improve overall productivity. Digital solutions also enable farmers to detect diseases early and respond more effectively. The integration of technology is reducing labor dependency and operational inefficiencies. This trend is transforming traditional fish farming into a data-driven and scalable industry.

• Growth of Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS)
  Recirculating aquaculture systems are gaining popularity in India due to their efficient water usage and reduced environmental impact. RAS allows fish to be farmed in controlled indoor environments, minimizing disease risks and water pollution. These systems are particularly attractive in regions facing water scarcity. Although initial setup costs are high, long-term operational benefits are driving adoption. This trend supports sustainable intensification of fish farming practices.

• Rising Demand for High-Value Fish Species
  Consumer preferences in India are shifting toward high-value species such as salmon, shrimp, and seabass. Fish farmers are diversifying species to capture premium market segments and increase profitability. Export-oriented aquaculture is also driving demand for quality-controlled and traceable fish products. Improved breeding techniques are supporting the farming of these species in non-traditional regions. This trend reflects the market’s shift toward value over volume.

• Expansion of Integrated Fish Farming Practices
  Integrated fish farming systems that combine aquaculture with agriculture or livestock are gaining traction in India. These systems improve resource utilization by recycling waste and enhancing farm sustainability. Farmers benefit from diversified income streams and reduced input costs. Government training programs are promoting integrated models at the grassroots level. This trend is improving farm resilience and rural income stability.

• Increasing Focus on Sustainable Aquaculture
  Sustainability has become a key focus in the India fish farming market due to environmental concerns. Farmers are adopting eco-friendly feeds, reducing antibiotic use, and improving waste management practices. Certification programs and sustainability standards are gaining importance in domestic and export markets. Companies are investing in responsible farming practices to meet regulatory and consumer expectations. This trend ensures long-term viability of the industry.

Market Growth Drivers

• Rising Global Demand for Seafood
  Fish consumption in India is increasing due to population growth and rising health awareness. Fish is recognized as a rich source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients. As wild fish stocks decline, fish farming is filling the supply gap. Retail chains and foodservice providers are sourcing more farmed fish to ensure consistent availability. This growing demand is a major driver of market expansion.

• Declining Wild Fish Stocks
  Overfishing and environmental degradation are reducing wild fish populations globally. In India, this has created an urgent need for alternative and sustainable fish production methods. Fish farming provides a controlled and reliable supply of seafood. Governments are implementing fishing restrictions that further encourage aquaculture growth. This driver positions fish farming as a strategic solution to food security challenges.

• Government Support and Policy Initiatives
  Governments in India are promoting fish farming through subsidies, training programs, and infrastructure development. Financial assistance for pond construction, feed, and seed is improving farmer participation. Policy frameworks are also encouraging private investment and export-oriented production. Public-private partnerships are strengthening supply chains and market access. This institutional support is accelerating market growth.

• Technological Advancements in Aquaculture
  Innovations in breeding, nutrition, and disease management are significantly improving fish farming efficiency in India. High-quality feeds and genetically improved fingerlings are increasing survival and growth rates. Technology-driven solutions are reducing losses and improving profitability. These advancements are making fish farming more attractive to commercial investors. Technology remains a critical growth enabler for the market.

• Expansion of Export Opportunities
  Farmed fish exports from India are increasing due to rising global seafood demand. Improved cold chain infrastructure and quality standards are enabling access to international markets. Export-oriented production offers higher margins for farmers and processors. Trade agreements and certifications are further supporting export growth. This driver strengthens the market’s global competitiveness.

Challenges in the Market

• Disease Outbreaks and Biosecurity Risks
  Fish farming in India is highly vulnerable to disease outbreaks that can cause significant losses. Poor water quality and overcrowding increase the risk of infections. Disease management requires technical expertise and investment in biosecurity measures. Small-scale farmers often lack access to preventive solutions. This challenge poses a major risk to consistent production and profitability.

• High Cost of Feed and Inputs
  Feed accounts for a large share of fish farming operational costs in India. Price volatility of raw materials affects profit margins for farmers. Dependence on commercial feeds increases financial pressure, especially for small producers. Efforts to develop alternative and locally sourced feeds are ongoing. High input costs remain a critical constraint for market growth.

• Environmental Concerns and Regulations
  Fish farming activities can lead to water pollution and habitat degradation if not managed properly. In India, environmental regulations are becoming stricter to address these concerns. Compliance increases operational complexity and costs for farmers. Poorly regulated farms risk closures or penalties. Balancing growth with environmental protection remains a key challenge.

• Limited Access to Technology for Small Farmers
  While advanced technologies are transforming commercial aquaculture, small farmers in India face access barriers. High costs and lack of technical knowledge limit adoption. This creates productivity gaps between large and small operations. Government extension services are helping, but coverage remains uneven. Bridging this gap is essential for inclusive growth.

• Market Price Fluctuations
  Fish prices in India are influenced by seasonal supply, demand variability, and export conditions. Sudden price drops can reduce farmer income and discourage production. Lack of organized marketing channels worsens price instability. Cold storage and processing infrastructure remain insufficient in some regions. Price volatility continues to challenge long-term planning for farmers.

India Fish Farming Market Segmentation

By Environment

• Freshwater

• Brackish Water

• Marine Water

By Fish Type

• Carp

• Tilapia

• Catfish

• Salmon

• Others

By Farming System

• Pond Culture

• Cage Culture

• Recirculating Aquaculture Systems

• Integrated Fish Farming

By End-User

• Commercial Farms

• Small-Scale Farmers

• Hatcheries

• Research Institutions

Leading Key Players

• Mowi ASA

• Thai Union Group PCL

• BASF SE

• Cargill, Incorporated

• Charoen Pokphand Foods PCL

• Cooke Aquaculture Inc.

• Maruha Nichiro Corporation

• Austevoll Seafood ASA

• Cermaq Group AS

• BioMar Group

Recent Developments

• Mowi ASA expanded its sustainable salmon farming operations in India.

• Cargill, Incorporated launched advanced aquafeed solutions tailored for India farmers.

• Thai Union Group PCL invested in traceability systems for farmed fish exports in India.

• BioMar Group partnered with research institutions in India to develop sustainable feed formulations.

• Cooke Aquaculture Inc. increased investment in land-based aquaculture facilities in India.

This Market Report Will Answer the Following Questions

1. What is the projected size and CAGR of the India Fish Farming Market by 2031?

2. Which farming systems are driving productivity growth in India?

3. How is technology transforming fish farming practices in India?

4. What challenges are limiting sustainable expansion of fish farming?

5. Who are the key players shaping the India fish farming industry?