India Seaweed Market By Type (Brown, Red, Green), By Method of Cultivation (Single Rope Floating Raft Method, Fixed Bottom Long Thread Method, Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture), By Form (Liquid, Dry), By Application (Human Consumption, Non-Human Consumption), By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

India Seaweed Market was valued at USD 2.03 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 2.12 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 3.66% during the forecast period. 

The India Seaweed Market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand across multiple industries, including food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and cosmetics. Seaweed is gaining traction as a valuable resource due to its rich nutritional profile, sustainability, and versatility in applications. In the food industry, the rising consumer preference for plant-based and functional foods has spurred the adoption of seaweed-based products such as snacks, seasonings, and hydrocolloids like agar and carrageenan, which are widely used as gelling, thickening, and stabilizing agents. In agriculture, seaweed-based biofertilizers and biostimulants are gaining prominence as eco-friendly alternatives to chemical fertilizers, enhancing soil health and crop productivity. According to the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) report, India has the capacity to produce approximately 9.7 million tonnes (MT) of seaweed across 342 identified potential sites.

The pharmaceutical and cosmetics sectors are also leveraging seaweed extracts for their bioactive properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial benefits. Government initiatives promoting seaweed farming, along with research and development efforts to enhance cultivation techniques, have further accelerated market expansion. Coastal states such as Tamil Nadu and Gujarat are emerging as key production hubs due to favorable climatic conditions and access to marine resources.

However, challenges such as limited large-scale farming infrastructure, supply chain constraints, and regulatory hurdles regarding sustainable harvesting practices pose barriers to market growth. Additionally, the need for improved processing and value addition facilities remains crucial for maximizing economic potential. The involvement of startups and multinational corporations in seaweed-based product innovation and investments in cultivation technology is expected to drive future advancements. With growing awareness of seaweed's economic and environmental benefits, the India Seaweed Market is poised for robust expansion, supported by increasing domestic consumption and export opportunities. The market's potential is further bolstered by rising collaborations between research institutions, industry players, and policymakers to develop a structured and sustainable seaweed industry in India.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Demand for Plant-Based and Functional Foods

The increasing consumer shift toward plant-based and functional foods is a major driver of the India Seaweed Market, as people become more health-conscious and seek sustainable dietary choices. Seaweed is emerging as a superfood, packed with essential nutrients such as iodine, antioxidants, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids, which support various health functions, including thyroid regulation, digestion, cardiovascular health, and immune system enhancement. The growing demand for vegan and vegetarian alternatives in India has led to a surge in seaweed-based foods, such as dried snacks, sushi wraps, soups, and seasonings. In addition to direct consumption, the food processing industry has also significantly increased its use of hydrocolloids such as agar and carrageenan, extracted from seaweed, which act as thickening, stabilizing, and gelling agents in products like dairy alternatives, plant-based meat, bakery items, and confectionery. 

 The rise of lifestyle diseases, including diabetes, obesity, and heart ailments, has further accelerated consumer interest in functional foods with anti-inflammatory and gut-health benefits. Additionally, the growing popularity of Asian cuisines, including Japanese, Korean, and Thai dishes, has influenced Indian consumers to incorporate more seaweed-based ingredients into their diets. Online and offline retail platforms are also contributing to the accessibility and visibility of seaweed-based products, making them readily available to urban consumers. Startups and established food brands in India are launching innovative seaweed-based products, including protein bars, fortified beverages, and plant-based seafood substitutes, to cater to evolving consumer preferences. As the Indian market continues to embrace clean-label, organic, and minimally processed foods, the demand for seaweed as a nutritious and versatile ingredient is expected to rise, driving further investments in seaweed farming, processing, and product innovation. With increasing consumer awareness and regulatory support for plant-based foods, seaweed is positioned to become a key component of India’s functional food market in the coming years.

Government Initiatives and Policy Support for Seaweed Cultivation

The Indian government has been actively promoting seaweed cultivation as part of its broader strategy to enhance marine-based economic activities, support rural livelihoods, and drive sustainability efforts. Recognizing the economic and environmental potential of seaweed farming, multiple government initiatives have been launched to boost production, improve processing infrastructure, and encourage private sector participation. One of the most significant initiatives is the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), which aims to develop the fisheries and aquaculture sector, including dedicated funding for seaweed farming projects. The government has allocated financial assistance to small and medium-sized farmers, enabling them to adopt seaweed cultivation as an alternative income source, particularly in coastal regions such as Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh.
Furthermore, research and development efforts are being intensified, with institutions such as the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) and National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) working on developing high-yielding, climate-resilient seaweed strains. For instance, In June 2023, Tata Chemicals Limited (TCL) secured technology from the Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute (CSMCRI) to produce biodiesel from microalgae. TCL, one of India’s largest chemical companies, became the first private enterprise to collaborate with CSMCRI for the cultivation of Chlorella microalgae species and the extraction of biodiesel. Under this agreement, CSMCRI has licensed its crude oil extraction technology from microalgae to TCL for automobile fuel production. As part of the collaboration, CSMCRI will assist TCL in establishing a facility in Mithapur, Gujarat, to cultivate the identified Chlorella species in an open marine environment and process the harvested biomass for crude oil extraction.

These efforts are helping improve farming techniques and increase seaweed production efficiency. In addition, the government is fostering public-private partnerships (PPPs) to attract investments in seaweed processing units, value-added product development, and export-oriented businesses. Regulatory frameworks are also being improved to ensure sustainable harvesting and processing, which is critical to maintaining marine biodiversity and ecological balance.
Moreover, coastal development programs are being expanded to encourage women-led self-help groups and local fishing communities to participate in seaweed farming as a means of economic empowerment. Seaweed is also being integrated into India's "Blue Economy" strategy, which aims to utilize ocean resources for sustainable development. As awareness of climate change mitigation, carbon sequestration, and marine conservation grows, seaweed farming is being increasingly recognized as an eco-friendly industry. With continued government support, infrastructure development, and favorable policies, the India Seaweed Market is set to expand rapidly, positioning the country as a significant player in the global seaweed economy.

Expansion of Seaweed-Based Biofertilizers and Animal Feed

The increasing adoption of organic and sustainable farming practices in India has driven the demand for seaweed-based biofertilizers as an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic chemical fertilizers. Traditional chemical-based fertilizers have led to soil degradation, pollution, and reduced microbial activity, prompting Indian farmers to explore biostimulants and organic fertilizers for better crop health. Seaweed-based biofertilizers contain essential micronutrients, growth hormones, amino acids, and alginates, which enhance plant growth, improve soil moisture retention, and boost nutrient absorption. Studies have shown that seaweed extracts help crops become more resistant to drought, pests, and environmental stress, making them highly beneficial for Indian agriculture, particularly in regions affected by climate variability and erratic monsoons.
At the same time, the livestock and aquaculture industries are increasingly incorporating seaweed-based animal feed supplements due to their high protein, fiber, and omega-3 content. Seaweed-based feed enhances gut health, immune function, and digestion in cattle, poultry, and fish, leading to higher productivity and reduced dependency on antibiotics. With India being one of the largest producers of dairy and poultry products, the adoption of seaweed-derived animal nutrition solutions is growing rapidly. Additionally, the aquaculture sector is exploring seaweed as a sustainable fish feed alternative, reducing reliance on fishmeal and soy-based feeds, which have environmental and cost-related challenges.
Agribusiness firms and startups are actively investing in seaweed-based formulations for agriculture and livestock. Government-backed initiatives promoting organic farming and sustainable animal husbandry are further driving demand for these products. As Indian farmers and livestock owners continue to seek cost-effective, organic, and productivity-enhancing solutions, the market for seaweed-based fertilizers and feed supplements is expected to expand significantly, contributing to India’s shift toward sustainable agriculture and livestock management.

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Key Market Challenges

Limited Consumer Acceptance of Seaweed-Based Products

One of the most significant challenges facing the India Seaweed Market is the lack of consumer awareness and acceptance of seaweed-based products. Unlike in countries such as Japan, South Korea, and China, where seaweed has been a staple in diets and industrial applications for centuries, Indian consumers are relatively unfamiliar with its benefits, uses, and nutritional value. Traditionally, seaweed consumption in India has been limited to coastal communities, and its expansion into the mainstream food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industries remains slow.

The perception of seaweed as a foreign or exotic ingredient often leads to hesitation among Indian consumers. Many associate seaweed with strong oceanic flavors, slimy textures, or an acquired taste, making it challenging for food manufacturers to market seaweed-based snacks, supplements, and processed food products. Additionally, the limited availability of ready-to-eat seaweed products in traditional retail stores has kept its consumer adoption relatively low.

Another factor restricting growth is the lack of widespread knowledge about seaweed’s industrial applications beyond food, such as its role in bioplastics, biofertilizers, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Many businesses, farmers, and policymakers remain unaware of its economic potential, leading to underinvestment in seaweed cultivation and processing infrastructure.

To overcome this challenge, industry players need to focus on educational campaigns, influencer-driven marketing, and strategic partnerships with health and wellness brands. Introducing seaweed-infused traditional Indian foods and launching affordable, mass-market seaweed-based products can help increase consumer confidence. Additionally, government-backed initiatives and research collaborations aimed at promoting the scientific benefits of seaweed will play a crucial role in enhancing public perception and market penetration. Until these awareness gaps are bridged, consumer reluctance and market unfamiliarity will remain key barriers to the widespread adoption of seaweed-based products in India.

Supply Chain Constraints and Seasonal Dependence on Seaweed Harvesting

The India Seaweed Market faces major supply chain challenges due to seasonal fluctuations, inefficient harvesting methods, and limited post-harvest processing facilities. Unlike terrestrial crops, seaweed cultivation is highly dependent on marine ecosystems, water temperatures, and oceanic conditions, making it vulnerable to climate change, monsoons, and unpredictable environmental shifts. The monsoon season, cyclones, and coastal erosion can significantly disrupt seaweed farming operations, leading to supply shortages and inconsistent production cycles.

Additionally, India’s seaweed supply chain is still in its early stages, with small-scale farmers relying on traditional, labor-intensive harvesting techniques. The lack of mechanized farming, efficient drying, and cold storage infrastructure results in high post-harvest losses and limits the scalability of seaweed-based industries. Moreover, transporting raw seaweed from coastal regions to inland processing units is expensive and logistically challenging, further increasing supply chain inefficiencies.

Another issue is the limited availability of high-yield seaweed varieties suited for commercial applications. Many Indian seaweed farms focus on wild harvesting rather than structured aquaculture, leading to inconsistent quality and yield variations. Compared to leading seaweed-producing nations such as China and Indonesia, where advanced marine biotechnology and selective breeding techniques have significantly improved output, India still lags in scientific advancements and large-scale production capabilities.

Lack of Standardization in Seaweed-Based Industries

The India Seaweed Market faces regulatory hurdles due to the lack of clear policies, fragmented governance, and the absence of standardized quality norms for seaweed-based products. Unlike industries such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, or fisheries, which have well-defined government regulations and compliance frameworks, seaweed cultivation and processing fall into a regulatory gray area, leading to uncertainties for investors, farmers, and manufacturers.
One of the key challenges is the lack of defined legal classifications for seaweed-based products under India's Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), and environmental regulations. Without specific guidelines for food-grade seaweed, bioplastics, biofertilizers, and nutraceutical formulations, companies face difficulties in obtaining approvals, navigating export restrictions, and ensuring consumer safety compliance. This ambiguity discourages business expansion, foreign investments, and large-scale commercialization of seaweed-derived products.
Additionally, marine conservation laws and coastal regulations often create bottlenecks in seaweed aquaculture permits, environmental clearances, and land-use approvals. Farmers and businesses must navigate multiple government departments, leading to delays in project execution and scaling operations. Moreover, the absence of standardized testing protocols and quality benchmarks creates inconsistencies in product purity, safety, and labeling, reducing consumer trust and limiting international export opportunities.
To unlock the full potential of the India Seaweed Market, regulatory authorities must establish comprehensive guidelines for seaweed farming, product standardization, and industry-specific compliance frameworks. Policymakers should introduce fast-track approval processes, tax incentives, and industry-led certification programs to encourage private sector participation and market expansion. Until a clear regulatory structure is implemented, the industry will continue to face growth limitations due to legal ambiguities, inconsistent enforcement, and market hesitancy.

Key Market Trends

Rising Demand for Seaweed-Based Bioplastics and Sustainable Packaging

The growing emphasis on sustainability and plastic waste reduction has led to an increasing demand for seaweed-based bioplastics, positioning seaweed as a viable alternative to petroleum-based plastics in India. With the Indian government implementing strict regulations on single-use plastics, including a nationwide ban on disposable plastic items, businesses are actively seeking eco-friendly packaging alternatives. Seaweed-based bioplastics offer biodegradable, compostable, and non-toxic packaging solutions, making them ideal for food containers, straws, cutlery, and film wraps. In April 2024, Mars and Unreasonable Group introduced the inaugural cohort of companies poised to transform global food systems. In collaboration with Unreasonable Group, Mars selected 15 purpose-driven, growth-stage ventures and their leaders based on their potential to drive large-scale impact across the food value chain. This next phase of the Unreasonable Food program aims to advance sustainability objectives, including the Mars Net Zero Roadmap and its 2030 goal of reducing emissions by 50% and beyond.  To curate the Unreasonable Food inaugural cohort, the selection committee evaluated a diverse pool of innovative and entrepreneurial disruptors in the food industry, focusing on four key pillars: Shaping the Future of Food, Enhancing Farmer Livelihoods, Transforming Food Supply Chains, and Reimagining Sustainable Packaging.

 Startups and research institutions in India are developing innovative seaweed-derived polymers, which possess high tensile strength, water resistance, and oxygen barrier properties, making them suitable for food and beverage packaging, pharmaceutical coatings, and agricultural applications. These bioplastics decompose naturally within 4 to 6 weeks, significantly reducing environmental impact compared to conventional plastic, which takes hundreds of years to break down.
Additionally, corporate sustainability initiatives and consumer awareness about plastic pollution are accelerating the adoption of seaweed-based materials. Several FMCG companies, retailers, and e-commerce platforms are exploring partnerships with bioplastic manufacturers to replace traditional packaging with sustainable alternatives. The Indian government’s push toward a circular economy, along with subsidies and incentives for biodegradable packaging solutions, is further fueling investments in this sector.
As India moves toward eco-conscious industrial practices and green innovation, seaweed-based bioplastics have the potential to revolutionize sustainable packaging and material sciences, creating new economic opportunities and significantly boosting the India Seaweed Market.

Growing Investments in Seaweed Farming Infrastructure and Technology

The expansion of seaweed farming infrastructure and technological advancements is playing a crucial role in scaling up production efficiency and improving supply chain capabilities within the India Seaweed Market. Traditionally, seaweed farming in India was limited to small-scale, manual harvesting methods, which constrained productivity and limited farmers' income. However, with increased investments in aquaculture technology, large-scale commercial seaweed farms are being developed, utilizing automated cultivation systems, mechanized harvesting, and advanced drying techniques. In March 2025, the Union Government introduced the ‘Guidelines for Import of Live Seaweeds into India’ to enhance seaweed enterprises in coastal states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala. Import permits will be issued within four weeks of approval. Recognized for their medicinal and nutritional value, seaweeds are in high demand globally, often termed the 'medicinal food of the 21st Century.' They are used in pharmaceutical applications for treating goitre, cancer, and cardiovascular conditions. The guidelines aim to facilitate the import of high-quality seed materials for domestic cultivation while prioritizing environmental protection and biosecurity.

 One of the key technological innovations driving growth in this sector is the development of offshore seaweed farming techniques, which utilize floating cultivation structures in deeper waters, rather than relying solely on nearshore harvesting. This enables higher yield potential, reduces environmental degradation, and ensures a steady supply of seaweed biomass for industrial applications. Additionally, drone-based monitoring, AI-driven aquaculture management, and remote sensing technologies are enhancing productivity by optimizing growth conditions, detecting diseases early, and preventing losses due to climate variations.
The Indian government, in collaboration with private companies, has also launched financial incentives, training programs, and research grants to support seaweed cultivators in adopting modern farming techniques. Companies specializing in marine biotechnology and aquaculture automation are investing in sustainable, high-yielding seaweed varieties, improving the economic viability of large-scale production.
Furthermore, cold storage, processing hubs, and export-oriented supply chains are being developed to facilitate the efficient handling and distribution of seaweed-based products. With advancements in farming techniques, digital aquaculture solutions, and infrastructure development, India’s seaweed industry is poised for rapid growth, ensuring higher yields, improved quality, and enhanced market competitiveness.

Segmental Insights  

Method of Cultivation Insights

Based on Method of Cultivation, the Single Rope Floating Raft Method dominated the India Seaweed Market due to its cost-effectiveness, scalability, and high yield potential. This method is widely adopted along India’s southeastern and western coastal regions, particularly in Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, where seaweed farming has seen significant growth. One of the primary reasons for its dominance is its ability to thrive in shallow coastal waters with minimal infrastructure investment. The method involves tying seaweed seedlings to ropes that float on the water’s surface using buoys, allowing optimal sunlight exposure and nutrient absorption. Compared to the Fixed Bottom Long Thread Method, which is constrained by water depth and sedimentation issues, the Single Rope Floating Raft Method provides better flexibility and adaptability to varying marine conditions.

Additionally, this cultivation technique reduces labor intensity and enhances productivity by enabling easy harvesting without disrupting the marine ecosystem. It also supports large-scale commercial seaweed farming, making it a preferred choice for both small-scale farmers and industrial seaweed producers. With government initiatives promoting seaweed farming, increasing demand for seaweed-based products, and the method’s proven efficiency in enhancing yield, the Single Rope Floating Raft Method continues to lead the India Seaweed Market, ensuring sustainable and profitable cultivation.

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Regional Insights

South India dominated the India Seaweed Market due to its favorable coastal conditions, extensive seaweed farming initiatives, and strong government support. States such as Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala play a crucial role in India’s seaweed production, processing, and commercialization. One of the key reasons for South India’s dominance is its long coastline with nutrient-rich waters, which provides ideal conditions for large-scale seaweed cultivation. The Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay in Tamil Nadu are particularly known for high-yielding commercial seaweed farming, producing brown, red, and green seaweed varieties. Tamil Nadu alone contributes a significant share of India’s total seaweed production, driven by government-backed initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), which promotes seaweed farming among coastal communities.

Additionally, South India has well-developed seaweed processing industries, supplying raw and processed seaweed for applications in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and biofertilizers. The region also benefits from strong export networks, with processed seaweed products being shipped to global markets in Asia, Europe, and North America.  With rising investments, increasing adoption of advanced cultivation techniques, and government support for expanding seaweed production, South India is expected to maintain its dominance in the India Seaweed Market, driving sustainable growth and innovation in the sector.

Recent Developments

• In January 2025, the Mandapam Regional Centre of ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) was designated as a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for seaweed research and cultivation in India. As part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), the Union Department of Fisheries, Government of India, allocated 22 insulated vehicles in Ramanathapuram district to strengthen cold chain infrastructure for maintaining fish quality up to the marketing stage, with a subsidy of ₹147.94 lakh.
• In September 2023, India launched an ambitious Seaweed Mission to modernize and expand small-scale seaweed farming, aligning with the growing global focus on this climate-friendly and nutrient-rich marine resource. The initiative aims to leverage the country’s vast 7,500-km coastline and significantly increase national seaweed production from 30,000 tonnes to an estimated 11 million tonnes by 2025.
• In January 2025, seaweed-based products developed by ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CMFRI) have come under review by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) following concerns raised by health activists. The Campaign Against Pseudo Science Using Law and Ethics (CAPSULE), a public health initiative under the Kerala Sasthra Sahitya Parishad (KSSP), has alleged that these products were marketed with disease-curing claims without undergoing human trials.
• In January 2025, Zerocircle, a Pune-based biotech company specializing in seaweed-based alternatives to petro-plastics, announced the successful closure of its INR 20 crore seed funding round. The investment was led by climate-focused investors, including Rainmatter Capital, 1Crowd, and renowned environmental advocate Trudie Styler. Additional investors supporting Zerocircle’s mission include Trousdale Sarosphere LLC, VC Grid, 7th Gen Ventures, Spectrum Impact, and LNB Group. This milestone reinforces Zerocircle’s position as a leader in the green-tech sector, advancing the development of fully biodegradable and home-compostable materials that eliminate harmful microplastics.

Key Market Players

• Aquagri Processing Private Limited
• Sea6 Energy Pvt. Ltd
• Tata Chemicals Limited
• Coromandel International Limited
• Mars, Incorporated
• HiMedia Laboratories Private Limited
• SNAP Natural & Alginates Products Pvt Ltd

Report Scope:

In this report, the India Seaweed Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• India Seaweed Market, By Type:

o   Brown

o   Red

o   Green

• India Seaweed Market, By Method of Cultivation:

o   Single Rope Floating Raft Method

o   Fixed Bottom Long Thread Method

o   Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture

• India Seaweed Market, By Form:

o   Liquid

o   Dry

• India Seaweed Market, By Application:

o   Human Consumption

o   Non-Human Consumption

• India Seaweed Market, By Region:

o   North

o   South

o   West

o   East

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the India Seaweed Market.

Available Customizations:

India Seaweed Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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