Top Common Squids Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Common squids, classified under "Not Elsewhere Included" (NEI) in fisheries statistics, refer to various squid species not identified to a specific taxon in catch records. These cephalopods are highly valued for their tender flesh and are a staple in global seafood markets, often used in dishes like calamari. The leading countries harvesting NEI common squids include China, Japan, South Korea, and Spain, with China being the dominant player due to its vast distant-water fishing fleet and significant domestic demand. These nations operate large-scale industrial fisheries, often employing jigging and trawling methods to capture squids in both coastal and international waters. The squid fishing industry is crucial for these countries, supporting thousands of jobs and contributing substantially to export revenues, while also facing challenges related to stock management and sustainability due to fluctuating squid populations and high international demand.

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