1.1 Market Size Growth Potential

(1) Current Market Size

According to the latest market research report, the global astaxanthin market was valued at approximately USD 800 million in 2023. In recent years, with the increasing demand for health and beauty products, astaxanthin, a natural antioxidant, has gradually gained attention. Primarily sourced from microalgae and certain seafood such as shrimp and lobster, our team has innovatively extracted a healthier and more environmentally friendly astaxanthin from longan fruits. This element is widely used in cosmetics, health supplements, and nutritional supplements, fostering a diversified market development.

(2) Growth Trends

The astaxanthin market has exhibited robust growth trends in recent years. Research predicts that by 2028, the market size will reach USD 1.5 billion, with an average annual growth rate of approximately 14%. Today, consumers' heightened awareness of health, particularly the need for anti-aging and skin care, has fueled this growth. Naturally sourced astaxanthin and its extracts have been widely adopted in developed countries like Europe, the United States, and Japan. Brands like DHC, Kose (notably its Aqualabel series), Shiseido (Wrinklelogist), Fancl, and Mentholatum have launched products containing astaxanthin. In China, two brands, Yifei and HomeFacialPro, have also claimed to introduce astaxanthin-infused products. Traditionally marketed for "antioxidant and immune-boosting" effects, astaxanthin's roles in emerging areas like cognitive enhancement, heart, muscle, and vision protection are emerging, with significant potential in sports nutrition. Innova Market Insights data shows that from 2014 to April 2019, North America led the global launch of astaxanthin products for the anti-aging market (46%), followed by Europe (26%), Asia-Pacific (24%), and South America (2%), with a CAGR of 18%. In the Asia-Pacific region, focus is on heart, skin, joint, eye health, and overall wellness.

In 2009, Emanuela Camera and her team compared the photoprotective effects of astaxanthin and other antioxidants on oxidative stress in UVA-induced human dermal fibroblasts. The results indicated that, compared to other antioxidants (including β-carotene and canthaxanthin), astaxanthin exhibited a more pronounced photoprotective effect and effectively counteracted the damage caused by UVA [1]. Additionally, trace amounts of astaxanthin can quench free radicals induced by UV radiation, mitigating the damage to skin collagen and elastin caused by UV rays, particularly UVB. Research has also shown that oral intake of astaxanthin can inhibit the secretion of inflammatory cytokines in skin cells exposed to UVB radiation, thereby alleviating oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions in the stratum corneum that are triggered by photoaging [2]. Advancements in extraction and production technologies have reduced astaxanthin's production costs and significantly increased market supply. Our team's novel longan-based extraction technology enhances efficiency, making products more affordable and accessible.

(3) Future Forecast

Consumer demand shifts will spur more astaxanthin-based innovations. Companies are developing astaxanthin-infused beverages, blending with other nutrients to cater to young consumers. A renowned skincare brand's high-concentration astaxanthin anti-aging serum, combined with natural ingredients, has garnered significant attention, boosting astaxanthin's appeal in the beauty industry. Health supplement brands have also introduced astaxanthin-rich capsules to support the immune system, becoming market favorites.

In our project's future development, we will prioritize marketing efforts. Social media platforms and health influencers will amplify astaxanthin's awareness. Health campaigns and scientific research will educate consumers on its benefits. With growing sustainability and eco-consciousness, consumers prefer products from renewable sources, giving astaxanthin a competitive edge.

1.2 Sustainability Analysis

In the future, we will emphasize our team's innovation in astaxanthin extraction technology, application technology, and other aspects. By continuously expanding the sources of astaxanthin and reducing reliance on traditional microalgae and seafood resources, we aim to contribute to the protection of marine ecosystems and biodiversity. Under the banner of ecological sustainability, we promote circular economy and resource recycling, ensuring waste is properly disposed of or reused (e.g., extraction residues as organic fertilizers).

As technology is the primary driver, we will continuously invest in R&D (abbr. Research and Development) to explore more efficient and eco-friendly extraction and purification methods, reducing energy and water consumption. We will also explore synergies between astaxanthin and other natural ingredients, developing multi-benefit composites to enhance market competitiveness.

1.3 Scalability Analysis

The astaxanthin market is expanding rapidly, and production technology advancements are lowering extraction and synthesis costs. Our team aims to expand production through a more convenient and efficient way. Astaxanthin's versatility opens doors to new applications beyond traditional beauty and health sectors, including food additives, animal feed, and functional beverages. We will develop new products to enter these markets, diversifying revenue streams.

Enhancing services also boosts revenue. Personalized health consultations, online courses, or customized wellness programs can increase customer retention. Integrating astaxanthin into health management services attracts health-conscious consumers, driving sales. Emphasizing sustainability and eco-friendliness through green production and renewable resources further strengthens our brand, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.

2.1 Addressing Social Issues: Focus on Vision Health and Aging Challenges

Through in-depth engagement with Fuzhou Blind Associations, we understand the daily struggles faced by visually impaired individuals. This insight underscores astaxanthin's potential in vision health, not just for the general population but also for special groups. Collaborating with blind associations reinforces our commitment to social responsibility and technological product innovation for positive societal change.

We are inspired to develop "customized astaxanthin products", including user-friendly packaging, enhanced product technology, and assisted technology integration. We will deepen research collaborations with ophthalmic medical institutions and research centers to study astaxanthin's role in preventing eye diseases,especially age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Scientific data will bolster public trust, and customized astaxanthin-based vision care products(e.g., easy-to-consume supplements,eye massagers with astaxanthin essence) will enhance accessibility and efficacy. We will alsointensify public education on astaxanthin's vision health benefits, particularly among seniors, promoting early prevention and intervention.

Our partnership with the Fuzhou Blind Association underscores the importance of social responsibility,user-centric design, and sustainability. We will continue to innovate, offering valuable products and services while prioritizing user experience and genuine needs.

2.2 Employment Security: Building a Diverse Employment System

We will conduct specialized training across the astaxanthin value chain, covering cultivation, extraction, and marketing. We will attract high-level technical and managerial talent to enhance project competitiveness. Collaborating with governments and enterprises, we will support SMEs and startups with funding, technology, and market access, fostering innovation and job growth. For rural farmer cooperatives, we will provide technical guidance and market linkages for astaxanthin raw material cultivation. Close cooperation among upstream and downstream enterprises will ensure a stable and growing job market from raw material cultivation to end-product sales.

2.3 Enhancing Quality of Life: Comprehensive Health and Beauty Solutions

We will continually develop novel astaxanthin products, including high-potency antioxidant skincare, functional foods, and supplements, catering to diverse health and beauty needs. Leveraging modern technologies like nanotechnology, we will improve astaxanthin's stability and bioavailability. As we break technical barriers, we will strengthen branding through high-quality products and services. Consumer education programs will disseminate astaxanthin knowledge, guiding rational product choices.

Collaborating with fashion, beauty, and health management brands for co-branded products will broaden market reach and enhance brand influence. Exploring astaxanthin's applications in sports nutrition and pet health will further diversify our product line. Environmental protection remains paramount, with green cultivation and energy-efficient production ensuring the industry's long-term health. Our commitment to social responsibility and public welfare underscores our dedication to innovation and harmonious integration of biology and daily life.

As global sustainability gains prominence, astaxanthin's natural origins and eco-friendly extraction methods have garnered positive societal recognition. Consumers prefer eco-certified products, and astaxanthin's sustainable extraction and minimal environmental impact have garnered widespread support. This not only attracts eco-conscious consumers but also fosters healthy industry development, inspiring our team to innovate continuously, blending biology seamlessly into daily life.