Top Myanmar Fish Catches

Myanmar boasts one of Southeast Asia’s most productive fishing industries, thanks to its extensive river systems, lakes, and a long coastline along the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea. The country’s top fish catches include hilsa shad (Tenualosa ilisha), various species of catfish (notably Pangasius spp.), rohu (Labeo rohita), and snakehead (Channa spp.), as well as marine species like Indian mackerel and pomfret. Fishing in Myanmar has deep historical roots, with traditional methods practiced for centuries by local communities along the Irrawaddy River and coastal areas. Since the 1980s, the industry has expanded rapidly, both in inland fisheries and marine sectors, becoming a vital part of the national economy and a major source of export revenue. Despite challenges such as overfishing and environmental concerns, Myanmar remains a leading fish producer in the region, with fish and seafood forming a staple of the national diet.

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