Top Cockles Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Cockles, grouped under "Not Elsewhere Included" (nei) in FAO statistics, are small, edible bivalve mollusks found in sandy, sheltered coastal waters. They are prized for their sweet, tender meat and are a staple in many traditional dishes, especially in Europe and Asia. The top cockle-harvesting countries include China, South Korea, and the United Kingdom, with China dominating global production through both wild capture and extensive aquaculture. In Europe, the UK, the Netherlands, and Spain have significant cockle fisheries, often managed through strict quotas and seasonal closures to ensure sustainability. In Asia, South Korea and Thailand are notable producers, with cockles forming an important part of local diets and export markets. The cockle industry supports coastal communities, but overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution remain challenges, prompting many countries to implement management measures and invest in aquaculture to maintain healthy stocks.

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