Mexico Canned Tuna Market Overview,2030

Since early in this century Mexican consumers have shifted how they treat canned tuna from being just an inexpensive protein to a product evaluated for both flavor and ethics. Public concern about oceans has grown, especially along both Pacific and Gulf coasts where fishing communities see the decline of bycatch species. In response some canneries have adopted practices that reduce unintended capture of small fish and marine mammals. Secretariat of Economy regulation NOM‑051 that went into effect in 2020 mandates front of package warnings when products contain excess sodium or calories and requires all pre‑packaged tuna imports to have Spanish labeling. Canned tuna is also more often featured in family meals especially during Holy Week when consumption of seafood rises markedly in Veracruz and Oaxaca. Mexican consumers favor solid packs of yellow fin during those special periods, and stores like Soriana and Costco Mexico stock higher‑end “solid in oil” and “premium yellow fin” options. At the same time, varieties infused with chile, with lime or in sauce appear in supermarkets in Guadalajara and Tijuana to appeal to younger buyers seeking bold tastes. Fishing quotas and seasonal closures in parts of Sinaloa and Sonora affect supply, driving some brands to import frozen tuna fillets to maintain production. Meanwhile food safety authorities apply standards such as NOM‑030‑SSA1 for fish products requiring verification of metal container seams and ensuring correct storage and canning processes in factories in Nayarit and Jalisco. Companies such as Grupo Pinsa which owns brands like Dolores, Mazatún and El Dorado have responded by offering tuna in solid yellow fin in water or oil in packaging that highlights protein per 100 grams and drained net weight, recognizing that many buyers in Mexico City and Monterrey check can labels for clarity.

According to the research report, ""Mexico Canned Tuna Market Overview, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the Mexico Canned Tuna market is anticipated to grow at more than 5.14% CAGR from 2025 to 2030. Market leaders such as Dolores maintain strong brand recognition everywhere, but regional brands like Mazatún dominate where their fishing fleets operate, for example in Sonora and Durango, export‑oriented firms like Pinsa Comercial also push frozen lines and fillets beyond national borders. Packaging innovations have expanded: solid yellow fin in extra virgin olive oil under “Marina Azul Premium” and solid yellow fin in water under “Tuny Gourmet” have been highlighted by consumer groups like Profeco during Holy Week for better drained weight and protein content. Imports from Vietnam and Thailand have increased for certain tuna lines since trade agreements under CPTPP have reduced tariff barriers, enabling firms focused on modern formats like small jars and resealable pouches to diversify their offering. Retailers such as Chedraui, H‑E‑B Mexico, and Walmart de México have begun emphasizing sustainability claims, placing eco‑labelled tuna at shelf eye‑level. Factories in Baja California and Guerrero have started using more efficient canning machinery and automation to reduce waste and improve yield. The pandemic stressed local supply chains, especially for fleets harvesting yellow fin off the Pacific, and transportation disruptions pushed some brands toward frozen supply rather than fresh catch to avoid losses. Also changing are marketing efforts which now use influencer collaborations and social media to promote tuna bowls and fusion cuisine styles integrating tuna with Mexican staples like nopales or avocados. Demand is now more segmented by income, value lines remain important in less affluent areas while premium solid packs or flavored dressings attract buyers in wealthier zones like Santa Fe or Polanco.

In the Mexican canned tuna market, skipjack tuna is the most widely consumed variety. This species is abundant in the Pacific Ocean, particularly off the coast of Baja California and Sinaloa, making it an accessible and affordable option for Mexican consumers. Skipjack tuna is commonly found in supermarkets such as Walmart Mexico, Soriana, and Chedraui, typically in cans filled with either oil or brine. This product is favored for its mild flavor, making it an ideal addition to popular dishes like tuna salad, tacos, and tortas de atún (tuna sandwiches). Additionally, skipjack tuna is often marketed as a cost-effective choice, which aligns with the budget-conscious mindset of many Mexican families. On the other hand, yellowfin tuna is gaining ground in Mexico, especially among consumers in more urbanized areas like Mexico City and Monterrey, where higher income levels support demand for premium products. Known for its firmer texture and richer flavor, yellowfin is often sold in specialty stores or high-end supermarket chains like La Comer or City Market. This variety is popular among consumers seeking higher quality, as it is frequently used in gourmet dishes like ceviche de atún or tuna steaks. Furthermore, yellowfin tuna is often marketed as a more sustainable choice, appealing to the growing environmentally conscious demographic in urban centers. While skipjack and yellowfin dominate the market, albacore tuna is also available, though it represents a smaller segment of the market. This species is more commonly found in imported premium brands and is used primarily in higher-end culinary preparations such as sushi rolls or tuna tartare.

In Mexico, the B2C (business-to-consumer) distribution channel for canned tuna is robust, with widespread availability through both large grocery chains and smaller local stores. Major retail outlets such as Walmart Mexico, Soriana, and Bodega Aurrera offer a wide variety of canned tuna, including options for skipjack, yellowfin, and other specialty products. These chains dominate the market by providing a range of price points, from budget-friendly skipjack options to more premium yellowfin and albacore varieties. Supermarkets in larger cities such as Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey are particularly important in driving sales, as consumers there are more likely to purchase higher-end canned tuna options. In recent years, online retailing has become an increasingly popular distribution channel for canned tuna, with platforms like Amazon Mexico and Mercado Libre offering consumers the convenience of home delivery. This growth in online sales is especially noticeable among young urban professionals who prefer the ease of purchasing food products online. Additionally, the B2B (business-to-business) distribution channel plays an essential role in supplying tuna products to the foodservice industry, including restaurants, catering services, and hotels across Mexico. Wholesalers like Grupo Bimbo and Alsea provide canned tuna in bulk to businesses that cater to large-scale demand, including institutions in tourist-heavy regions such as Cancún and Puerto Vallarta. The B2B channel also supports smaller businesses like taco stands and restaurants that prepare traditional dishes such as tacos de atún. Furthermore, foodservice distributors cater to the increasing demand for sustainability, offering eco-friendly and ethically sourced canned tuna products, which have been gaining traction among businesses that focus on environmental responsibility.

In Mexico, flakes are the most popular shape for canned tuna, as they are the most versatile and affordable option for everyday meals. The soft, shredded texture of flake tuna makes it easy to incorporate into a variety of classic Mexican dishes such as tuna salad, tuna tostadas, and tuna empanadas. It is widely available in supermarkets like Chedraui, Walmart Mexico, and Soriana, and is often the go-to choice for families looking for a quick and cost-effective meal. Chunks, while less common than flakes, are also available and favored by some consumers for their firmer texture. These larger pieces of tuna are often used in more substantial meals like tuna casseroles or tuna sandwiches, providing a heartier bite. Chunks are typically found in yellowfin tuna varieties, which are marketed as a more premium option. Consumers looking for high-quality tuna often opt for chunks, as the firmer pieces maintain their integrity better when cooked or added to dishes. Fillets are a less common choice but are gaining traction among consumers who appreciate premium products. Fillets are typically found in higher-end markets such as City Market or La Comer, where consumers purchase yellowfin tuna for gourmet meals like tuna steaks or ceviche. These fillets are prized for their rich flavor and firm texture, making them ideal for dishes that require a more refined presentation. Additionally, pouched tuna has started to make a mark in the market as an alternative to traditional canned tuna. Sold in convenient, eco-friendly packaging, pouched tuna appeals to health-conscious consumers who prefer a lighter, less processed option that is easy to consume on the go. The trend towards pouched and other alternative forms reflects a growing shift toward sustainable, on-the-go products in Mexico's food market. 

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Canned Tuna Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product
• Skipjack
• Yellowfin
• Others

By Distribution Channel
• B2C
• B2B

By Shape
• Flakes
• Chunks
• Fillets
• Others
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