The fishing industry in the United Republic of Tanzania, particularly around the Zanzibar archipelago, plays a vital role in local livelihoods, food security, and the economy. Zanzibar’s coastal waters are rich in marine biodiversity, with the top fish catches including small pelagic species such as sardines (Sardinella spp.), anchovies (Engraulidae), and mackerel (Scomber japonicus), as well as demersal species like groupers (Epinephelus spp.), snappers (Lutjanidae), and emperors (Lethrinidae). Artisanal fishing dominates, using traditional wooden dhows and outrigger canoes, though some industrial fishing for tuna and other large pelagics also occurs offshore. Historically, fishing has been integral to Swahili coastal culture for centuries, with trade in dried and salted fish dating back to the era of Arab and Persian influence. Today, the industry faces challenges from overfishing, destructive fishing practices, and climate change, but it remains a cornerstone of Zanzibar’s economy and cultural heritage.
| Rank | Fish Species | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Goatfishes, red mullets nei | 2,950 |
| 2 | Surgeonfishes nei | 2,880 |
| 3 | Yellowfin tuna | 2,850 |
| 4 | Emperors(=Scavengers) nei | 2,790 |
| 5 | Anchovies nei | 2,560 |
| 6 | Groupers, seabasses nei | 2,310 |
| 7 | Marine fishes nei | 2,270 |
| 8 | Tropical spiny lobsters nei | 2,080 |
| 9 | Parrotfishes nei | 2,050 |
| 10 | Swordfish | 1,900 |
| 11 | Barracudas nei | 1,860 |
| 12 | Sharks, rays, skates, etc. nei | 1,790 |
| 13 | Carangids nei | 1,780 |
| 14 | Anchovies, etc. nei | 1,730 |
| 15 | Mullets nei | 1,710 |
| 16 | Spinefeet(=Rabbitfishes) nei | 1,410 |
| 17 | Seerfishes nei | 1,340 |
| 18 | Sardinellas nei | 1,200 |
| 19 | Marine molluscs nei | 1,190 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.