Fish Pumps Market Size & Outlook, 2026-2034

Fish Pumps Market Overview

The global fish pumps market size was valued at USD 134.16 million in 2025 and is estimated to grow from USD 143.64 million in 2026 to reach USD 248.10 million by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 7.07% during the forecast period (2026–2034). The global aquaculture industry's rapid expansion, driven by rising seafood demand and declining wild fish stocks, is fueling the need for efficient pumps to support large-scale, sustainable production.

Key Market Trends & Insights

• Europe dominated the global market with a market share of 32.65%.
• Based on product type, the impeller pumps segment held a dominant share of 33.23% in the market.
• By operation mode, the semi-automatic segment held the largest share and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.01%.
• By application, the aquaculture segment held the largest share and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.12%.
• By distribution channel, the direct sales/OEMs segment was dominant, holding a market share of 44.98%.

Market Revenue Figures

• 2025 Market Size: USD 134.16 million
• 2034 Projected Market Size: USD 248.10 million
• CAGR (2025-2033): 7.07%
• Europe: Largest market in 2024

The global fish pumps market is increasingly driven by the growing focus on fish welfare and stress-free handling, as aquaculture operators aim to minimize injuries and mortality during transport, complying with stricter regulatory and ethical standards. Labor shortages in commercial fisheries and aquaculture operations are also accelerating the adoption of automated fish pumping systems, which reduce reliance on manual labor while improving operational efficiency and productivity.

Furthermore, ongoing technological innovations, including variable-speed pumps, integrated sensors, and remote monitoring systems, are enhancing precision, reliability, and ease of use. The rising preference for portable and energy-efficient pumps among small- and medium-scale fisheries is another key driver, enabling cost-effective and flexible solutions. Collectively, these factors are fostering wider adoption of these pumps across diverse aquaculture and fisheries segments globally.

Latest Market Trend

Expansion of recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS)

The adoption of recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) is accelerating worldwide as fish farming shifts toward sustainable and land-based models. RAS enables efficient water reuse, reduced environmental discharge, and controlled production environments, making it increasingly attractive for high-value species like salmon and trout.

A notable example is the land-based salmon farm in Baring Farsund, Southern Norway, where a modular RAS facility was completed in less than 12 months. Backed by an investment of around USD 28 million, its first phase will produce ~1,200 tonnes of post-smolt annually, with future phases targeting 24,000 tonnes per year. As these systems expand globally, demand for advanced pumps rises, since they are essential for water circulation, maintaining fish welfare, and ensuring gentle handling within closed-loop environments.

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Market Driver

Growth of the aquaculture industry

The global market is significantly driven by the rapid growth of the aquaculture industry, which demands efficient and reliable fish handling solutions. Expanding aquaculture operations require technologies that ensure safe and stress-free fish transfer, improve productivity, and reduce labor dependency.

• According to the 2024 edition of The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture (SOFIA), global aquaculture production hit a record 130.9 million tonnes in 2022, exceeding the previous peak of 96 million tonnes in 2020. The total first-sale value of this production was estimated at USD 313 billion, emphasizing the sector's significant economic contribution.

This surge in aquaculture output is driving the adoption of advanced fish pumps, as operators seek to maintain quality, minimize losses, and meet growing seafood demand worldwide.

Market Restraint

High capital and maintenance costs

High capital and maintenance costs remain a significant restraint in the global market. Modern pump systems, especially those integrated with automation, sensors, and energy-efficient motors, require substantial upfront investment. This cost burden is challenging for small and medium aquaculture operators, particularly in developing regions where budget limitations are common.

In addition, maintenance expenses further add to the total cost of ownership, as pumps require regular servicing, replacement of parts, and skilled technicians for smooth operation. These recurring expenses often discourage widespread adoption. Consequently, despite their efficiency and benefits in fish welfare, affordability remains a major barrier limiting market penetration.

Market Opportunity

Growing demand for fish pumps in offshore aquaculture projects

The offshore aquaculture segment presents a significant growth opportunity for this market, driven by increasing global seafood demand and limited nearshore farming space. Efficient fish pumps are critical for transferring fish safely between cages, tanks, and transport vessels, minimizing stress and mortality in large-scale offshore operations. Advanced pump technologies, including energy-efficient and sensor-integrated systems, support the management of these complex environments.

• For instance, in May 2025, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved the Velella Epsilon project off Florida's coast, marking a milestone as the first U.S. open-ocean finfish farm permit in federal waters. This approval, after a seven-year review process, is expected to pave the way for future commercial-scale offshore farms, driving robust demand for reliable and technologically advanced fish pumping solutions globally.

Consequently, manufacturers in this industry are poised to benefit from expanding offshore aquaculture initiatives worldwide.

Regional Analysis

Europe's market benefits from well-established aquaculture industries and strong regulatory emphasis on environmental sustainability. Demand is rising for low-stress, automated handling systems to improve fish health and product quality. Energy-efficient pumps and integration with IoT-enabled monitoring are gaining traction to optimize operations. Expansion of recirculating aquaculture systems and increased investments in offshore fish farming are further supporting market growth. Operators are focusing on reducing labor dependency while ensuring compliance with strict animal welfare standards, fueling the adoption of advanced fish pump technologies.

• Spain's fish pumps market is expanding due to the growing Mediterranean aquaculture sector, particularly in seabass and gilthead seabream farming. Fish pumps help streamline harvesting and live transport for domestic and export markets. Firms such as Grupo Caladero invest in energy-efficient and portable pumps, reducing labor costs and injuries. Rising government initiatives to modernize aquaculture infrastructure further support adoption across coastal aquaculture operations.
• Norway's market is driven by its large-scale salmon aquaculture industry, where offshore and land-based farms require advanced pumping systems for efficient fish handling. Companies increasingly adopt automated, sensor-enabled pumps to reduce fish stress and optimize labor. For example, Lerøy Seafood Group uses modern recirculating aquaculture systems integrated with variable-speed pumps, enhancing fish welfare and operational efficiency while supporting Norway's export-focused aquaculture.

Asia-Pacific: Significantly Growing Region

The Asia Pacific market is expanding rapidly due to the region's large-scale aquaculture production and rising seafood consumption. There is a growing demand for portable and durable pumps suitable for both small-scale and industrial operations. Adoption of modern aquaculture practices, including closed-loop systems, is driving technological upgrades. Operators are increasingly investing in automated, energy-efficient pumps to improve operational efficiency, reduce fish stress, and comply with emerging sustainability standards. Regional market growth is also supported by rising exports of live and processed fish to global markets.

• China's fish pumps market is expanding rapidly due to the country's massive aquaculture sector, which accounts for over 60% of global fish production. Rising demand for sustainable and automated fish handling systems in provinces like Guangdong, Zhejiang, and Fujian is boosting adoption. Companies are deploying advanced sensor-based and low-stress pumps to enhance efficiency in freshwater and marine farms, particularly for species like carp, tilapia, and shrimp. Government-backed modernization programs, such as the "Aquaculture Technology Promotion Project," are encouraging investment in automated fish handling solutions.
• India's market is witnessing growth driven by increasing aquaculture exports, particularly shrimp, pangasius, and rohu. States such as Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, and Kerala are modernizing farms with energy-efficient and portable fish pumps for better live fish transfer. Government initiatives, including the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), provide funding and infrastructure support for modern aquaculture practices. Rising demand for high-quality seafood and adoption of technology by large shrimp hatcheries and integrated aquaculture farms are creating opportunities for domestic and international pump manufacturers.

North America: Substantial Potential for Growth

The North American market is driven by advanced aquaculture infrastructure and a strong focus on automation to optimize efficiency. Operators are increasingly adopting energy-efficient and sensor-enabled pumps to support sustainable fish farming practices. Growing consumer demand for seafood and stricter animal welfare regulations are encouraging the use of gentle handling technologies. Additionally, labor shortages in aquaculture are pushing facilities to integrate automated fish pumps, enhancing productivity and reducing operational risks across large-scale commercial and recirculating aquaculture systems.

• The United States fish pumps market is driven by the expansion of aquaculture, particularly salmon and catfish farms, and the increasing adoption of recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). Companies like Pentair Aquatic Eco-Systems and AquaMover are supplying automated and energy-efficient pumps to large-scale farms in Maine and the Pacific Northwest. The focus on fish welfare, labor efficiency, and sustainable production is further boosting market growth across commercial fisheries.
• Canada's market is growing with investments in salmon farming along the Atlantic coast and British Columbia. Firms are adopting advanced fish pumps for gentle handling and efficient transport in both freshwater and marine aquaculture. Government support for modernizing aquaculture infrastructure and initiatives for sustainable seafood, such as in Nova Scotia and Quebec, is expanding market opportunities for automated and sensor-integrated pumping systems.

Product Type Insights

The impeller pumps segment dominates the global market due to its high efficiency in transferring large volumes of water with minimal stress to aquatic stock. Its robust design, low maintenance requirements, and adaptability across various aquaculture setups make it the preferred choice for both small and large-scale operations globally.

Operation Mode Insights

The semi-automatic segment leads the market as it balances operational control with automation. It allows farmers in this industry to efficiently manage water flow and aquatic stock transfer while reducing manual labor. This mode ensures precise handling, minimizes injury, and suits medium-scale operations that require reliability without fully investing in expensive, fully automatic systems.

Application Insights

The aquaculture segment holds the largest share in the market. Rising global seafood demand and the expansion of fish farms and hatcheries drive the need for efficient water circulation and aquatic stock handling solutions. These pumps are critical for maintaining water quality, ensuring health, and improving operational productivity in aquaculture facilities.

Distribution Channel Insights

The direct sales/OEMs segment dominates distribution, as manufacturers prefer selling directly to end-users to provide customized solutions and after-sales support. This channel ensures faster delivery, technical assistance, and operators' training. OEMs also maintain long-term relationships with aquaculture businesses, enhancing brand loyalty and enabling seamless integration of pumps into farm operations.

Company Market Share

Companies in the global market are focusing on automation, sustainability, and scalability to enhance operational efficiency. They are investing in research and development to create energy-efficient and low-maintenance systems. Collaborations with aquaculture operators and seafood processors are being pursued to expand market reach. Additionally, companies are exploring innovative technologies and integrating automation to meet the growing demand for efficient fish handling solutions.

Cflow

Cflow is a Norwegian company specializing in the design and supply of live fish handling systems for the aquaculture and fisheries industries. They offer a comprehensive range of solutions, including fish pumps, valves, water separators, and control systems, all tailored to ensure optimal fish welfare and operational efficiency. Cflow's technology is widely utilized in both land-based and marine aquaculture operations, with notable projects in Norway and Japan.

• In October 2024, Salmon Evolution awarded Cflow a contract to deliver advanced fish-handling technology, including pumps, pipes, and valves, for its Phase 2 land-based salmon facility in Langevåg, Norway. Scheduled for delivery between early 2025 and 2026, this collaboration highlights the growing demand for efficient, welfare-focused fish transfer systems in modern aquaculture operations.

List of key players in Fish Pumps Market

1. Cflow
2. PG Flow Solutions
3. Pentair Aquatic Eco-Systems (AES)
4. MMC First Process
5. Faivre S.A.S.
6. Maskon
7. Marel
8. Mjøs Metallvarefabrikk AS
9. Sterner
10. SMIR
11. Desmi
12. Acuinuga
13. Inventive Marine Products Limited
14. Innovasea Systems
15. SeaQuest Systems

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Recent Developments

• July 2025- MMC First Process advanced its fish-handling portfolio with the AQU Gentle Pumps, designed to ensure low-stress transfer and improved fish welfare. These pumps are being deployed in large-scale salmon farming projects, such as Samherji’s facilities, emphasizing gentle handling, operational efficiency, and compliance with stricter aquaculture welfare standards. This positions MMC as a key technology innovator.
• February 2025- LSM Pumps introduced the LSM125 Linear Pump, engineered for gentle live-fish transport. The pump minimizes stress and physical damage during handling, supporting higher survival rates in aquaculture operations. This launch reflects growing demand for efficient, welfare-focused fish transfer technologies in modern hatcheries and commercial fish farms worldwide.