Rising demand for cell-cultivated meat in the Asia-Pacific region

The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is witnessing a significant rise in interest and demand for cell-cultivated meat. This growth is driven by technological advancements, increasing consumer awareness of sustainability, and the urgent need to address environmental challenges associated with conventional livestock farming.

Traditional animal farming contributes significantly to environmental degradation through greenhouse gas emissions, water scarcity, and excessive land use. With approximately three-quarters of global agricultural land dedicated to animal husbandry, there is limited room for other agricultural needs. Cell-cultivated meat offers a solution with a lower environmental footprint, helping address these challenges.

“The 'lab-grown' meat market in APAC is gaining momentum, reflecting a shift in consumer priorities toward sustainability and ethical consumption,” said Amira Freyer-Elgendy, Consumer Analyst at GlobalData. “This growth is being fueled by rising environmental awareness and the search for alternatives to traditional protein sources, particularly in regions with high population densities and limited agricultural land.”

A recent GlobalData survey found that 81% of consumers in Asia and Australasia consider sustainability and environmental friendliness important factors when choosing food and beverages. This aligns with the increasing adoption of cultured meat products as a viable alternative.

Singapore has emerged as a global leader in cultured meat innovation, becoming the first country to approve the sale of cultivated meat in 2020. The government has since supported startups and international collaborations to accelerate advancements in the sector.

“Singapore’s regulatory framework and openness to novel food technologies are setting a precedent for other nations,” Freyer-Elgendy noted. “The country’s leadership underscores how proactive policies can drive innovation and consumer adoption.”

The Asia-Pacific market for cultured meat is projected to grow significantly, valued at US$179 million in 2024 and forecasted to reach US$510.7 million by 2033. This surge is driven by investments in technology, supportive legislation, and a regional focus on food security.

South Korea is also demonstrating strong consumer interest, with a survey revealing that 90% of respondents are willing to try cell-cultivated meat at least once. However, Freyer-Elgendy pointed out that “taste and affordability remain critical factors in driving widespread adoption.”

Despite its promise, the cultivated meat industry faces challenges in scaling production and achieving cost competitiveness. Continued investment in research and development is crucial for reducing production costs and improving the taste and texture of lab-grown meat to match consumer expectations.

“Lab-grown meat is not just a technical innovation; it’s a solution that intersects sustainability, health, and ethics,” Freyer-Elgendy explained. “However, bridging the gap between novelty and mainstream acceptance requires addressing cost and taste barriers head-on.”

As global meat demand rises—particularly in Asia, where limited land exacerbates traditional farming challenges—cell-cultivated meat is emerging as a sustainable and ethical alternative. With its reduced environmental impact, cultivated meat aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and promote food security.

The APAC region’s proactive stance on embracing cultured meat technologies positions it as a key player in shaping the future of sustainable food production. “The trajectory of lab-grown meat in the region is a testament to how innovation and policy can converge to address some of the most pressing issues of our time,” Freyer-Elgendy concluded.