Asia-Pacific Ready Meals Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

The Asia-Pacific Ready Meals Market Report is Segmented by Product Type (Frozen Ready Meals, Chilled Ready Meals, and More), Ingredient (Conventional, Free-From), Category (Vegetarian, Non-Vegetarian), Distribution Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Retailers, Other Distribution Channels) and by Geography (China, India, Japan and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

Asia-Pacific Ready Meals Market Size and Share

Asia-Pacific Ready Meals Market Summary
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Asia-Pacific Ready Meals Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence

The Asia-Pacific ready meals market currently stands at USD 30.97 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 39.51 billion by 2030, registering a 4.99% CAGR. This growth is fueled by rapid urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and smaller household sizes, all leaning towards the allure of convenient, time-saving food options. In nations like China, Japan, and South Korea, tech-driven cold chains not only bolster product safety but also broaden market reach by ensuring efficient storage and transportation of ready meals. Innovations like 'free-from' ingredients, plant-based proteins, and sustainable packaging are attracting a wider audience by catering to health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers. Concurrently, the surge in digital adoption and advancements in last-mile logistics are steering sales towards e-commerce platforms, enabling consumers to access a variety of ready meal options with greater convenience across the Asia-Pacific ready meals landscape.

Key Report Takeaways

  • By product type, chilled products led with 44.47% of Asia-Pacific ready meals market share in 2024, while frozen products are forecast to expand at a 5.34% CAGR through 2030.
  • By ingredient, conventional formulations held 81.55% share of the Asia-Pacific ready meals market size in 2024; free-from options record the fastest growth at 5.65% CAGR, through 2030.
  • By category, non-vegetarian meals captured 63.55% share of the Asia-Pacific ready meals market size in 2024; vegetarian meals are advancing at a 5.98% CAGR to 2030.
  • By distribution channel, supermarkets and hypermarkets accounted for 37.44% of the Asia-Pacific ready meals market share in 2024, while online retail is growing at 6.23% CAGR.
  • By geography, China dominated with 31.44% of Asia-Pacific ready meals market share in 2024; the Rest of Asia-Pacific is set to log a 6.54% CAGR through 2030.

Segment Analysis

By Product Type: Frozen Segment Accelerates Despite Chilled Dominance

Chilled ready meals maintain market leadership with 44.47% share in 2024, benefiting from consumer perception of freshness and superior taste profiles compared to frozen alternatives. However, frozen ready meals are experiencing robust growth at 5.34% CAGR through 2030, driven by technological innovations in preservation and expanding cold chain infrastructure across emerging markets. Shelf stable products serve niche applications in rural areas and emergency preparedness, while freeze-dried ready meals target premium outdoor and military segments with extended shelf life capabilities.

Advanced freezing technologies are transforming frozen product quality, with Japanese companies implementing 3D freezing systems that preserve texture and flavor integrity previously achievable only in fresh products. The convergence of preservation technology and consumer convenience preferences suggests frozen segments will continue gaining market share, particularly as distribution networks expand into underserved geographic regions where fresh product delivery remains challenging.

Asia-Pacific Ready Meals Market
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Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

By Ingredient: Free-From Acceleration Challenges Conventional Dominance

In 2024, conventional ingredients dominated the market, holding an 81.55% share. This dominance is attributed to well-established supply chains and the cost advantages associated with traditional formulations, which continue to appeal to manufacturers and consumers alike. Meanwhile, "free-from" products are experiencing significant growth, with a robust 5.65% CAGR projected through 2030. This growth is driven by increasing consumer awareness of health and dietary restrictions, as well as a rising preference for products catering to specific needs, such as gluten-free or allergen-free options. The trend is particularly evident in developed markets, where consumers are more inclined to pay a premium for specialized and health-focused ingredients.

Clean-label trends are exerting a transformative influence on both segments. Conversely, synthetic additives are facing growing resistance due to concerns over their potential health impacts. The ingredient landscape is further evolving due to regulatory developments, including China's proposed labeling standards. These standards aim to enforce clearer ingredient disclosures, which could accelerate the industry's shift toward more recognizable and natural components. Such regulatory changes are expected to impact all product categories, pushing manufacturers to reformulate their offerings to align with consumer demand for transparency and natural ingredients.

By Distribution Channel: Supermarkets/Hypermarkets Dominate, While Online Retail Stoes Surge

In 2024, supermarkets and hypermarkets accounted for 37.44% of the market. This significant contribution was driven by strategic eye-level merchandising, which enhances product visibility and attracts consumer attention. These retail formats also capitalize on impulse purchases, as customers are more likely to add ready meals to their carts when they are prominently displayed. Additionally, supermarkets and hypermarkets offer a wide variety of ready meal options, catering to diverse consumer preferences and dietary needs. Their ability to provide fresh, frozen, and shelf-stable ready meals under one roof makes them a preferred choice for many consumers. 

Online retail stores are emerging as a rapidly growing distribution channel in the market. These platforms are projected to experience a 6.23% CAGR through 2030, driven by the increasing penetration of e-commerce and the rising preference for online shopping. Consumers are drawn to the convenience of browsing and purchasing ready meals from the comfort of their homes, with the added benefit of doorstep delivery. Online platforms also offer a broader range of products compared to physical stores, including niche and specialty ready meals that may not be readily available elsewhere. The integration of advanced technologies, such as AI-driven recommendations and personalized shopping experiences, further enhances customer satisfaction. 

Asia-Pacific Ready Meals Market
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Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

By Category: Vegetarian Surge Reflects Dietary Evolution

In 2024, non-vegetarian ready meals command a dominant 63.55% market share in the Asia-Pacific ready meals market, buoyed by longstanding preferences for traditional proteins and well-established supply chains for both meat and seafood. The region's cultural inclination toward meat and seafood consumption, coupled with the availability of diverse non-vegetarian ready meal options, has solidified this segment's leadership. Countries like China, Japan, and South Korea are key contributors to this dominance, driven by their rich culinary traditions and high demand for convenience foods. Meanwhile, vegetarian options are on a rapid ascent, boasting a 5.98% CAGR projected through 2030. This surge underscores a shift in dietary choices and a growing environmental awareness, especially among the younger demographic. Urban centers across the region, such as Tokyo, Shanghai, and Taipei, are at the forefront of this movement, witnessing a pronounced acceptance of plant-based alternatives. The increasing influence of Western dietary trends and the rising popularity of flexitarian diets are further fueling the growth of vegetarian ready meals in the Asia-Pacific market.

Driving the expansion of this category is a wave of innovation in plant-based proteins. Notably, research institutes in Taiwan are pioneering advanced alternatives, crafting plant-based seafood and meat analogs from macroalgae and fungal strains. These innovations are not only catering to the growing vegetarian and vegan population but are also appealing to health-conscious consumers seeking sustainable and nutritious meal options. The Asia-Pacific region's robust R&D capabilities, combined with government support for sustainable food production, are expected to accelerate the development and adoption of plant-based ready meals. Additionally, collaborations between food manufacturers and research institutions are playing a pivotal role in enhancing the taste, texture, and nutritional profile of plant-based products, further driving their acceptance among consumers.

Geography Analysis

In 2024, China commands a 31.44% share of the Asia-Pacific ready meals market, capitalizing on its vast urban populace, a well-established cold chain infrastructure, and advanced food processing capabilities. This market thrives on robust domestic demand, fueled by the fast-paced lifestyles of urban dwellers and a rise in disposable income among the middle class. Additionally, China's strong distribution networks and government support for the food processing industry further bolster its dominance in the region. The presence of leading domestic and international players in the country also contributes to the market's growth, as they continue to innovate and expand their product portfolios to cater to evolving consumer preferences.

Meanwhile, the broader Asia-Pacific region showcases the most significant growth potential, projected at a 6.54% CAGR through 2030. This surge is largely attributed to emerging markets such as India, Indonesia, and Vietnam, where ready meal penetration remains low but adoption rates are witnessing a swift uptick. These countries are experiencing rapid urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and a growing preference for convenient food options, which are driving the demand for ready meals. Furthermore, improvements in cold chain logistics and increasing investments by key players in these markets are expected to accelerate growth during the forecast period.

For instance, India is witnessing a surge in demand for frozen and shelf-stable ready meals due to the expanding working population and the influence of Western food habits. Similarly, Indonesia and Vietnam are benefiting from the rising number of supermarkets and hypermarkets, which are improving the accessibility of ready meals to a broader consumer base. The region's growth is also supported by the increasing penetration of e-commerce platforms, enabling consumers to purchase ready meals conveniently. These factors collectively position the Asia-Pacific region as a lucrative market for ready meal manufacturers and suppliers.

Competitive Landscape

In the Asia-Pacific ready meals market, a concentration score of 3 out of 10 highlights a fragmented competitive landscape. This fragmentation, driven by diverse cultural preferences and regulatory nuances, leans towards regional specialization rather than a one-size-fits-all global approach. The market's diversity creates significant opportunities for both established multinational corporations and emerging local players to differentiate themselves. By focusing on tailored product development and region-specific distribution strategies, companies can effectively address the unique demands of various consumer segments across the region. Additionally, the fragmented nature of the market allows smaller players to thrive by catering to niche markets, while larger corporations can leverage their resources to scale operations and expand their footprint in high-growth areas.

Strategic partnerships and joint ventures are playing a pivotal role in reshaping the competitive dynamics of the market. Notable examples include CP Foods collaborating with Maejo University to conduct hemp research aimed at developing healthier ready meals, catering to the growing consumer demand for nutritious and innovative food options. This partnership underscores the increasing importance of research and development in creating differentiated products that align with evolving consumer preferences. Additionally, the CP Foods-Uoriki joint venture is targeting Thailand's premium seafood market, leveraging their combined expertise to meet the rising demand for high-quality seafood products. Such collaborations not only enhance product offerings but also enable companies to strengthen their market position by tapping into specialized segments.

Furthermore, the competitive landscape is becoming increasingly complex due to the growing influence of e-commerce platforms and direct-to-consumer brands. These channels often bypass traditional retail networks, enabling brands to directly engage with consumers and build stronger relationships. This shift is intensifying competitive pressures on established distribution networks, compelling incumbent players to invest in and develop robust omnichannel strategies to maintain their market relevance and effectively compete in this evolving environment. Companies are increasingly focusing on integrating online and offline channels to provide a seamless shopping experience, ensuring they remain competitive in a market that is rapidly adapting to digital transformation.

Asia-Pacific Ready Meals Industry Leaders

  1. McCain Foods Ltd

  2. Nestlé SA

  3. The Campbell's Company

  4. Ajinomoto Co., Inc.

  5. Conagra Brands Inc.

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
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Recent Industry Developments

  • May 2025: Iceland Foods launched its first Asia-Pacific retail operation, in China, in a bid to bring western cuisine to the Chinese retail market. The store forms part of a new strategic tie-up with retail concept company BTG We Link, and will offer shoppers in China over 100 products from the retailer’s frozen range including frozen ready meals from the end of June via multiple ecommerce platforms.
  • April 2025: AEON Co., Ltd. has unveiled three new frozen meal products under its private brand, “TOPVALU BestPrice”. The new lineup, dubbed “Frozen One-Plate”, showcases three varieties inspired by beloved Japanese and Western dishes: Gomoku Rice with Chicken in Black Vinegar Sauce, Cheese Curry with Hamburger Steak, and Peperoncino with Tomato Sauce Hamburger Steak.
  • December 2024: Hokka-Hokka Tei, a Japanese bento chain, is set to introduce frozen boxed meals, priced at approximately JPY 250 (USD 1.75), in Philippine supermarkets by 2025. The move aims to cater to busy working families and bolster the affordable ready meal segment across Southeast Asia.
  • November 2024: Nissin Foods, in collaboration with Nissin Asia, has launched Australia Nissin Foods Pty., Ltd., aiming to tap into the burgeoning instant noodle markets of Australia and New Zealand. The newly formed joint venture will focus on importing and selling a range of products, including instant noodles, snacks, cereals, and other food items, across both countries. This move marks Nissin's strategic establishment of a local footprint in the region.

Table of Contents for Asia-Pacific Ready Meals Industry Report

1. INTRODUCTION

  • 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
  • 1.2 Scope of the Study

2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

4. MARKET LANDSCAPE

  • 4.1 Market Overview
  • 4.2 Market Drivers
    • 4.2.1 Technological advancements in food preservation
    • 4.2.2 Sustainability and eco-friendly packaging
    • 4.2.3 Innovation in plant-based and alternative proteins
    • 4.2.4 Cultural and ethnic diversity
    • 4.2.5 Flavor and culinary trends
    • 4.2.6 Surge in demand for clean-label ready meals
  • 4.3 Market Restraints
    • 4.3.1 Short shelf life for premium products
    • 4.3.2 Strong competition from fresh and home-cooked alternatives
    • 4.3.3 Taste and quality perception
    • 4.3.4 Limited appeal in rural areas
  • 4.4 Consumer Behaviour Analysis
  • 4.5 Regulatory Outlook
  • 4.6 Porter's Five Forces Analysis
    • 4.6.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    • 4.6.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers
    • 4.6.3 Threat of New Entrants
    • 4.6.4 Threat of Substitutes
    • 4.6.5 Degree of Competition

5. MARKET SIZE AND GROWTH FORECASTS (VALUE)

  • 5.1 By Product Type
    • 5.1.1 Frozen Ready Meals
    • 5.1.2 Chilled Ready Meals
    • 5.1.3 Shelf Stable
    • 5.1.4 Freeze-Dried Ready Meals
  • 5.2 By Ingredient
    • 5.2.1 Conventional
    • 5.2.2 Free-From
  • 5.3 By Category
    • 5.3.1 Vegetarian
    • 5.3.2 Non-vegetarian
  • 5.4 By Distribution Channel
    • 5.4.1 Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
    • 5.4.2 Convenience Stores
    • 5.4.3 Online Retail Stores
    • 5.4.4 Other Distribution Channels
  • 5.5 By Geography
    • 5.5.1 China
    • 5.5.2 India
    • 5.5.3 Japan
    • 5.5.4 Australia
    • 5.5.5 Indonesia
    • 5.5.6 South Korea
    • 5.5.7 Thailand
    • 5.5.8 Singapore
    • 5.5.9 Rest of Asia-Pacific

6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • 6.1 Market Concentration
  • 6.2 Strategic Moves
  • 6.3 Market Share Analysis
  • 6.4 Company Profiles (Includes Global-level Overview, Market-level Overview, Core Segments, Financials, Strategic Info, Market Rank/Share, Products & Services, Recent Developments)
    • 6.4.1 Nestlé SA
    • 6.4.2 The Campbell's Company
    • 6.4.3 Ajinomoto Co., Inc.
    • 6.4.4 McCain Foods Ltd
    • 6.4.5 Conagra Brands Inc.
    • 6.4.6 Nichirei Foods Inc.
    • 6.4.7 Tingyi (Cayman Islands) Holding Corp.
    • 6.4.8 Sanquan Food Co.
    • 6.4.9 ITC Ltd
    • 6.4.10 MTR Foods Pvt Ltd
    • 6.4.11 Tasty Bite Eatables Ltd.
    • 6.4.12 Marumiya Corporation
    • 6.4.13 Tata Consumer Products Limited
    • 6.4.14 The Kraft Heinz Company
    • 6.4.15 Katokichi Co., Ltd.
    • 6.4.16 Bakkavor Group PLC
    • 6.4.17 Toyo Suisan Kaisha, Ltd.
    • 6.4.18 Uni-President Enterprises Corp.
    • 6.4.19 Freshippo (Hema)
    • 6.4.20 Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk PT
    • 6.4.21 Maruha Nichiro Corporation

7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE OUTLOOK

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Asia-Pacific Ready Meals Market Report Scope

Asia-Pacific Ready Meals Market is segmented by product type, distribution channel, and geography. On the basis of product type, the market is segmented into frozen ready meals, chilled ready meals, dried ready meals. On the basis of distribution channels, the market is segmented into supermarkets/ hypermarkets, convenience stores, online retailers, other distribution channels. Based on geography, the report provides a detailed analysis of India, China, Japan, Australia, and Rest of Asia-Pacific.

By Product Type Frozen Ready Meals
Chilled Ready Meals
Shelf Stable
Freeze-Dried Ready Meals
By Ingredient Conventional
Free-From
By Category Vegetarian
Non-vegetarian
By Distribution Channel Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
Convenience Stores
Online Retail Stores
Other Distribution Channels
By Geography China
India
Japan
Australia
Indonesia
South Korea
Thailand
Singapore
Rest of Asia-Pacific
By Product Type
Frozen Ready Meals
Chilled Ready Meals
Shelf Stable
Freeze-Dried Ready Meals
By Ingredient
Conventional
Free-From
By Category
Vegetarian
Non-vegetarian
By Distribution Channel
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
Convenience Stores
Online Retail Stores
Other Distribution Channels
By Geography
China
India
Japan
Australia
Indonesia
South Korea
Thailand
Singapore
Rest of Asia-Pacific
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Key Questions Answered in the Report

How large is the Asia-Pacific ready meals market in 2025?

It is valued at USD 30.97 billion, with a forecast to reach USD 39.51 billion by 2030.

Which product type is growing fastest?

Frozen ready meals register the highest growth at a 5.34% CAGR thanks to 3D-freezing and wider cold-chain reach.

Why is online retail important for ready meals?

E-commerce offers same-day delivery and broad assortment, driving a 6.23% CAGR for online sales channels through 2030.

Which country leads the regional market?

China holds the top position with 31.44% market share, supported by large urban populations and robust cold-chain logistics.

How fragmented is the competitive landscape?

The market is highly fragmented with a concentration score of 3, meaning significant room exists for both multinationals and agile local entrants.

Page last updated on: July 9, 2025

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