Top Blue Mackerel Fishing Countries

The blue mackerel (Scomber australasicus) is a small, fast-swimming pelagic fish found in subtropical and temperate waters of the Indo-Pacific, particularly around Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and parts of Southeast Asia. Known for its streamlined body and distinctive blue-green coloration with wavy lines, the blue mackerel is a key species in commercial and artisanal fisheries. Japan is one of the top blue mackerel fishing countries, utilizing the species for both fresh consumption and processing into products like canned mackerel and surimi. Australia and New Zealand also have significant blue mackerel fisheries, with the species being important for both domestic markets and export. In addition, countries such as Taiwan, China, and the Philippines harvest blue mackerel, contributing to regional food security and economies. The global blue mackerel fishery is managed through quotas and seasonal closures to ensure sustainability, reflecting the species' importance in marine food webs and human diets.

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