Introduction – China’s Fish Processing Machines Market by the Numbers
China is the engine room of the global fish processing machinery market. In 2024 alone, the country produced a staggering 73.66 million tons of aquatic products, a clear testament to its dominance in aquaculture and seafood production. With a robust infrastructure and a deep-rooted seafood industry, China isn’t just feeding its own people — it’s exporting its fish and the machines that process them around the world.
But navigating this vast landscape of suppliers and manufacturers can be tricky. That’s why a data-driven approach is essential. Whether you’re a seafood processor expanding your production line or a distributor sourcing for your network, knowing who the top performers are — based on real export data, buyer reviews, and market activity — makes all the difference.
Platforms like Freshdi make this process easier by offering verified supplier profiles, real-time RFQ trends, and export analytics, helping buyers make better decisions based on facts, not guesswork.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Current Demand Data
China’s aquatic industry is more than just big — it’s evolving rapidly. Let’s break down the numbers:
- Aquatic Product Output in 2024: 73.66 million tons
- Aquaculture: 60.62 million tons (up 4.3% YoY)
-
Source: chfseafood.com
-
Seafood Exports (2023):
- Volume: 3.52 million metric tons (stable YoY)
- Value: Down 12.7% due to weak overseas demand
- Exports to the U.S. dropped by 14.4% in volume and 21.6% in value
-
Source: fas.usda.gov
-
Top Export Destinations:
- Japan: $3.33 billion
- USA: $2.01 billion
- South Korea: $1.74 billion
Despite the challenges — including inflation, rising labor costs, and decreasing workforce availability — China is pushing forward through automation. By 2035, the global market for fish gutting machines is expected to grow to $2.36 billion. China is projected to lead this growth with a 10.8% CAGR.
Events like the China Fisheries & Seafood Expo 2025 have highlighted this shift, showcasing next-gen machines that are faster, smarter, and more efficient.
All this points to one thing: the demand for fish processing machines isn’t just holding steady — it’s accelerating.
And platforms like Freshdi show this in real-time. Through RFQ (Request for Quotation) trends, it’s clear that buyers are increasingly searching for automated filleting machines, vacuum tumblers, and high-capacity sterilizers — confirming the industry’s pivot toward modernization.
Top 3 Verified Fish Processing Machines Suppliers in China – Top Tier Based on Export Data
Here’s the part you’ve been waiting for — the Top 3 Fish Processing Machines Suppliers in China in Quarter 3 of 2025, based on export volume, verified certifications, buyer satisfaction ratings, and performance on Freshdi.
1. Shenzhen Lier Machinery Equipment Co., Ltd.
- Specialty: Flake Ice Making Machines for fishing boats and aquatic processing
- Why They Stand Out:
- High export volumes to Southeast Asia and Europe
- Excellent buyer feedback on energy efficiency and durability
- ISO 9001 certified manufacturing
- Freshdi Insight: High RFQ response rate and consistent performance for 3 consecutive quarters
2. Zhaoqing Hexu Machinery Co., Ltd.
- Specialty: Fish filleting, skinning, slicing, and meat-cutting machines
- Why They Stand Out:
- Advanced automation features
- High precision cutting tools ideal for large-scale processors
- CE and SGS certified
- Freshdi Insight: Top-rated in buyer satisfaction in Q3 2025 with a 98% repeat order rate
3. Shandong Xindaxin Food Industrial Equipment Co., Ltd.
- Specialty: Full canned fish production lines and sterilizer machines
- Why They Stand Out:
- Turnkey solutions for tuna and sardine canning
- Strong export footprint in Latin America and Southeast Asia
- Compliance with FDA and EU food safety standards
- Freshdi Insight: Ranked No. 1 in “Canned Fish Equipment” category for two consecutive quarters
Dynamic Ranking Note
Keep in mind that rankings can shift. Platforms like Freshdi regularly update supplier leaderboards based on real-time trade data, RFQ responsiveness, and customer reviews — so it pays to check in frequently for the latest “Suppliers of the Month” or “Best Exporter of the Quarter” updates.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Value Dynamics & Export Dynamics
The fish processing machinery market in China is anything but static. It’s a swirling mix of trade policies, seasonal demand cycles, and buyer preferences.
Here’s what’s shaping the landscape:
Export Trends
- Though volume remained stable (3.52 million metric tons), export value dropped 12.7% in 2023.
- The U.S. market, once a goldmine, is now shrinking due to 170% tariffs on Chinese tilapia.
- This has caused a ripple effect in key production hubs like Maoming, where processors are idling capacity.
Seasonal Pricing Patterns
- Seafood prices in China rose by 1.2% YoY in June 2024, driven by:
- Summer demand peaks
- Global supply chain bottlenecks
- Rising operational costs
For machine buyers, this matters. Why? Because many processors ramp up machinery purchases just before high-demand seasons. That means Q2 and Q3 are usually the busiest in terms of machinery procurement.
If you’re planning purchases, tracking these cycles can help you lock in better prices and avoid lead time delays.
Demand Forecasts
- From 2024 to 2035:
- Volume of frozen seafood projected to grow to 17 million tons
- Market value expected to hit $47.9 billion
- CAGR: 0.9% (volume), 1.6% (value)
- Source: indexbox.io
This growth is fueled not just by exports, but also by China’s rising domestic consumption and preference for value-added seafood — which requires better, more precise processing equipment.
Trade Tensions & Global Shifts
- U.S. tariffs of 10% on most seafood and 30% on Chinese products are shaking up global supply chains.
- The result? Higher fish prices in the U.S. and a scramble for alternative suppliers.
For Chinese manufacturers, this means two things:
1. More focus on non-U.S. markets (like ASEAN, Africa, and Latin America)
2. A push toward high-quality, automated, and export-compliant machines
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Informed Procurement
China’s fish processing machinery market is a powerhouse — but it’s also complex. From shifting trade policies to seasonal pricing and automation trends, there are a lot of moving parts.
That’s why smart buyers rely on data to guide their sourcing decisions. Tools like Freshdi offer a competitive edge by providing:
- Verified supplier profiles
- Performance analytics
- Real-time RFQ data
- Quarterly rankings and buyer reviews
Checklist for Buyers
Before choosing your supplier, ask yourself:
- Does the supplier have verified export records?
- Are they certified (CE, ISO, FDA-compliant)?
- Do they offer equipment that meets your processing needs (filleting, freezing, sterilizing)?
- Are they responsive to RFQs and after-sales service?
- What do other buyers say about them on platforms like Freshdi?
By following this checklist and leveraging tools like Freshdi, you’ll not only find the right supplier — you’ll build a long-term, reliable supply chain that adapts to market changes.
Future Outlook
As automation becomes the norm and global demand shifts toward value-added seafood products, the need for advanced fish processing machinery will only grow. China’s manufacturers are stepping up with smarter, more efficient machines that meet international standards.
If you’re looking to future-proof your operations, now’s the time to partner with top-tier Chinese suppliers and lock in your technology advantage.
FAQs
1. Why are Chinese fish processing machines in such high demand globally?
Because China combines scale, innovation, and affordability. Their machines are increasingly automated, reliable, and priced competitively — making them a top choice for seafood processors worldwide.
2. How can Freshdi help me choose the right supplier?
Freshdi provides verified profiles, export data, performance ratings, and RFQ trends. You get a full picture of the supplier’s capabilities, not just a product brochure.
3. Are seasonal price changes relevant when buying machinery?
Absolutely. Prices tend to rise during peak seafood processing seasons. Planning your purchase around these cycles can save costs and ensure timely delivery.
4. What certifications should I look for in a supplier?
At a minimum, look for ISO 9001, CE, SGS, and if you’re exporting to the U.S. or EU, ensure FDA and EU food safety compliance.
5. How often does Freshdi update its supplier rankings?
Freshdi updates rankings quarterly based on export data, RFQ responsiveness, and buyer reviews — so you always have access to the most current performance insights.
References
- chfseafood.com
- fas.usda.gov
- seafoodsource.com
- fmiblog.com
- foodmanvision.com
- infofish.org
- reuters.com
- indexbox.io
- reuters.com
