Cambodia boasts one of the world's most productive inland fisheries, centered around the vast Tonle Sap Lake and the Mekong River system. The country's fishing industry is a vital part of its economy and food security, with millions relying on fish as their primary protein source. The top catches include small, abundant species such as the Trey Riel (Henicorhynchus spp.), which is a staple in local diets, as well as larger species like the giant Mekong catfish (Pangasianodon gigas), snakehead (Channa spp.), and various types of carp and gourami. Fishing in Cambodia has ancient roots, with traditional techniques and community-based management practices persisting for centuries. However, the industry faces challenges from overfishing, habitat loss, and environmental changes, prompting efforts to promote sustainable practices and protect this critical resource for future generations.
Rank | Fish Species | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Freshwater fishes nei | 401,625 |
2 | Marine fishes nei | 103,475 |
3 | Natantian decapods nei | 9,695 |
4 | Marine molluscs nei | 8,075 |
5 | Marine crabs nei | 5,215 |
6 | Cephalopods nei | 4,785 |
7 | Freshwater crustaceans nei | 580 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.