Top Akiami Paste Shrimp Fishing Countries

The Akiami paste shrimp (Acetes japonicus) is a small, translucent shrimp species found in the coastal waters of East Asia, particularly valued for its use in making shrimp paste and other traditional foods. This species forms dense swarms in shallow, brackish waters, making it accessible for large-scale commercial harvesting. The top countries engaged in Akiami paste shrimp fishing are China, Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam, with China leading global production by a significant margin. These countries have developed specialized fisheries that utilize fine-meshed nets and traditional processing methods to capture and preserve the shrimp, supporting both local consumption and export markets. The industry is vital for coastal communities, providing employment and contributing to regional economies, while also facing challenges related to sustainable management due to the species’ high demand and susceptibility to overfishing.

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