Vanuatu’s fishing industry is a vital part of its economy and food security, shaped by both traditional practices and modern commercial ventures. The country’s top fish catches include tuna species—particularly yellowfin and skipjack—which are the mainstay of Vanuatu’s export-oriented offshore fisheries. Other important catches are mahi-mahi, wahoo, and deepwater snappers, while coastal and artisanal fishers target reef fish, trevally, and groupers for local consumption. Historically, fishing in Vanuatu was primarily subsistence-based, using traditional methods such as handlines and nets. Since the 1980s, the industry has expanded with the development of tuna longlining and purse seining, attracting foreign investment and creating new export opportunities. Despite its growth, the industry remains relatively small-scale compared to larger Pacific nations, with a strong emphasis on sustainable management and the preservation of marine resources for future generations.
| Rank | Fish Species | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Skipjack tuna | 53,850 |
| 2 | Yellowfin tuna | 14,661 |
| 3 | Argentine shortfin squid | 5,900 |
| 4 | Bigeye tuna | 5,213 |
| 5 | Albacore | 3,556 |
| 6 | Pacific saury | 2,700 |
| 7 | Blue shark | 1,025 |
| 8 | Swordfish | 530 |
| 9 | Marine fishes nei | 220 |
| 10 | Blue marlin | 171 |
| 11 | Shortfin mako | 88 |
| 12 | Striped marlin | 71 |
| 13 | Sea cucumbers nei | 35 |
| 13 | Trochus shells nei | 35 |
| 15 | Thresher sharks nei | 34 |
| 16 | Black marlin | 12 |
| 17 | Marine molluscs nei | 10 |
| 18 | Marine crabs nei | 2 |
| 18 | Sharks, rays, skates, etc. nei | 2 |
| 20 | Marine crustaceans nei | 1 |
| 20 | Pacific bluefin tuna | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.