Top Broadtail Shortfin Squid Fishing Countries

The broadtail shortfin squid (*Illex coindetii*) is a medium-sized cephalopod found in the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, known for its commercial value due to its tender flesh and rapid growth. This species is primarily harvested by countries bordering the Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic, with Spain, Italy, Portugal, and Greece leading in landings. In recent decades, Morocco and other North African nations have also become important contributors to the catch, utilizing both artisanal and industrial trawl fisheries. The broadtail shortfin squid supports significant seasonal fisheries, especially in the Mediterranean, where it is a staple in local markets and a key export product. Sustainable management of this species is increasingly important, as demand remains strong in European and international seafood markets.

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