Top Argentine Shortfin Squid Fishing Countries

The Argentine shortfin squid (*Illex argentinus*) is a fast-growing, migratory cephalopod found primarily in the Southwest Atlantic, especially along the Patagonian Shelf near Argentina. Renowned for its economic importance, this species supports one of the world’s largest squid fisheries. The main countries harvesting Argentine shortfin squid are Argentina, China, South Korea, Spain, and Taiwan, with fleets from these nations operating both within Argentina’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and in adjacent international waters. The fishery is characterized by large-scale, industrial jigging vessels, and the catch is primarily exported for human consumption, particularly to East Asian and European markets. The sustainability of the fishery is a concern due to fluctuating stock sizes and the high intensity of international fishing effort.

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