Top Common Octopus Fishing Countries

The common octopus (Octopus vulgaris) is a highly intelligent cephalopod found in temperate and tropical waters worldwide, particularly abundant in the eastern Atlantic, Mediterranean, and off the coasts of Africa and Asia. This species is prized for its tender, flavorful flesh and is a staple in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines. The top countries harvesting the common octopus are Spain, Morocco, Mauritania, and Japan, each with well-established fisheries targeting this species. Spain, especially the region of Galicia, leads in both catch volume and export, while Morocco and Mauritania are significant suppliers to European and Asian markets. Japan also maintains a robust octopus fishery, both domestically and through imports. The octopus fishing industry is economically important for coastal communities in these countries, relying on a mix of traditional and modern fishing methods such as pots, traps, and artisanal hand-jigging, though concerns about overfishing and sustainability have prompted increased management efforts in recent years.

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