Japanese seafood giant Umios has acquired a 51% stake in Malaysia’s Pet World International (PWI) for USD 70.4 million, marking its entry into Southeast Asia’s fast-growing pet food market. The deal strengthens Umios’ regional footprint and positions pet food as a core growth driver.
Umios, formerly known as Maruha Nichiro, has long been active in wet cat food across East Asia, North America, and Europe. The acquisition of PWI allows the company to diversify into dry dog food and broaden its product portfolio. Southeast Asia is now a priority market, with Umios citing double-digit growth in countries such as the Philippines and Thailand.
Pet World International builds market momentum
Founded in 2018, PWI has quickly established itself as a leading player in Malaysia. The company holds the number two market share in the country’s dog and cat food segment. In the twelve months ending September 2025, PWI generated net sales roughly equivalent to USD 78 million, growing at a compound annual rate of 11.3%. Headquartered in Shah Alam, Selangor, the company is led by CEO Choy Peng Yew.
The deal adds Malaysia to Umios’ existing pet food network, which includes AIXIA Co in Japan and Southeast Asian Packaging & Canning Ltd in Thailand. Together, these operations strengthen Umios’ reach across Asia while supporting exports to Europe and North America. PWI will also benefit from Umios’ marine resources division, which provides procurement capabilities for raw ingredients.
The global pet food market was valued at USD 188.3 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at 5–7% annually through 2032. In Asia, growth is expected to reach 8% annually, driven by rising pet ownership and expanding middle-income populations. Malaysia’s role as a manufacturing hub for consumer goods further enhances PWI’s strategic importance.
Long-term ambitions shape strategy
In its latest financial results, Umios highlighted pet food as a key growth driver despite challenges from exchange rates and input costs. The company has signaled plans to invest further in production and pursue additional mergers and acquisitions over the next two years. The PWI deal, scheduled for signing on July 16 and closing in September 2026, underscores Umios’ commitment to building a stronger presence in Asia’s dynamic pet food sector.