Top 5 Seafood Products in Demand — And How to Source Them

As consumer demand for healthy, affordable protein grows globally, seafood remains a staple in both developed and emerging markets. But not all species are created equal — and not all are easy to source. Whether you’re an importer, distributor, or food service buyer, staying ahead of demand trends helps protect your margins and supply chain.

In this guide, we cover five of the most in-demand frozen seafood products for 2025, plus how to source them smartly through trusted global exporters.

1. Pangasius (Vietnamese Basa)

🌍 In Demand Where:

• Africa (West & Central)

• Middle East

• Eastern Europe

💡 Why It’s Popular:

• Cost-effective white fish

• Neutral flavor

• Boneless and versatile

⚠️ Sourcing Tips:

• Ask for verified species (Pangasius hypophthalmus)

• Confirm glaze %, fillet sizes (e.g. 60/90g), and processing certifications (HACCP, EU)

• Be cautious of overly high glaze or mislabeling from unreliable factories

CMDX sources pangasius directly from EU-approved processors in Vietnam with full traceability.

2. Mackerel (Whole Round, Frozen)

🌍 In Demand Where:

• West Africa

• Caribbean

• Eastern Europe

💡 Why It’s Popular:

• Oily, nutrient-rich

• Affordable protein source

• Strong demand in informal markets and traditional retail

⚠️ Sourcing Tips:

• Specify size (e.g. 300–500g or 400–600g)

• Ensure the supplier can confirm catch method and country of origin

• Whole round products need strict cold chain control to prevent spoilage

CMDX supplies Atlantic and Indian Ocean mackerel with packaging customized for regional retail needs.

3. Shrimp (Vannamei, HOSO/HLSO/PDTO)

🌍 In Demand Where:

• US and Europe

• Foodservice distributors globally

💡 Why It’s Popular:

• Premium category protein

• High margin product for hospitality/F&B

• Strong year-round demand

⚠️ Sourcing Tips:

• Always request processing method: HOSO (Head-On Shell-On), HLSO (Headless), or PDTO (Peeled Deveined Tail-On)

• Ask for antibiotic-free certification if selling in EU/US

• Confirm pack sizes and glazing practices

CMDX works with ASC-certified farms and processors for export-compliant shrimp supply.

4. Tilapia

🌍 In Demand Where:

• US

• Latin America

• Middle East

💡 Why It’s Popular:

• Mild taste, easy to cook

• Good alternative to pangasius

• Fits healthy-eating trends

⚠️ Sourcing Tips:

• Look for whole vs. fillet based on market segment

• Be clear about farming origin and water quality (China, Vietnam, Indonesia, etc.)

• Confirm microbial testing and cold chain documentation

CMDX can offer tilapia from multiple origins, allowing buyers to choose based on price and preference.

5. Cuttlefish / Squid

🌍 In Demand Where:

• Mediterranean Europe

• Southeast Asia

• High-end restaurants globally

💡 Why It’s Popular:

• High-margin product

• Growing in popularity in gourmet and frozen-prep retail

⚠️ Sourcing Tips:

• Distinguish between species: squid (Loligo) vs. cuttlefish (Sepia)

• Ask for IQF vs. block frozen options

• Confirm catch zone, sustainability measures, and chemical-free status

CMDX supplies premium cephalopods in cleaned, whole, or portioned formats for B2B buyers.

Final Thoughts: Source Smarter, Not Just Cheaper

While demand drives opportunity, sourcing smartly is what protects your business. Hidden glaze, poor traceability, and inconsistent specs are still common in this space. That’s why working with a partner like CMDX — who offers full QA, responsive service, and export experience across seafood categories — makes a real difference.

Looking for updated pricing, trial orders, or certifications? Contact CMDX Global today to discuss your sourcing needs.