Top Afghanistan Fish Catches

Afghanistan’s fishing industry is modest, largely due to its landlocked geography and arid climate, but it plays an important role in local food security and rural livelihoods. The country’s top fish catches come primarily from its rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, with the most common species including common carp (Cyprinus carpio), grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella), and silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix), as well as native snow trout (Schizothorax spp.). Historically, fishing in Afghanistan has been small-scale and traditional, focused on subsistence rather than commercial export. In recent decades, the government and international organizations have promoted aquaculture and fish farming to boost production and provide alternative livelihoods, especially in provinces like Nangarhar, Kunduz, and Balkh. Despite challenges such as water scarcity, conflict, and limited infrastructure, the Afghan fishing sector continues to slowly develop, contributing to local diets and economies.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.