Top Butterfishes, Pomfrets Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Butterfishes and pomfrets, grouped under the FAO category “Butterfishes, pomfrets nei (not elsewhere included),” are a diverse group of small to medium-sized, silvery marine fish prized for their delicate flavor and tender texture. These fishes are commonly found in tropical and subtropical waters, particularly in the Indian and western Pacific Oceans. The leading countries harvesting these species are China, India, Indonesia, and Taiwan, where they are both commercially fished and highly valued in local cuisines. In these nations, butterfishes and pomfrets are caught using trawls, gillnets, and other traditional fishing methods, supporting both large-scale fisheries and small artisanal operations. The global demand for these fish, especially in Asian markets, drives significant exports, making them an important economic resource for coastal communities in the top producing countries.

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