Top Cupped Oysters Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Top cupped oysters, classified under "not elsewhere included" (NEI) in fisheries statistics, refer to various species within the family Ostreidae that are not specifically identified, but are generally harvested for their edible, cup-shaped shells and prized meat. These oysters are cultivated and wild-caught, playing a significant role in global aquaculture and fisheries. Major producers include China, which dominates the world oyster market due to its extensive coastal farming operations, as well as South Korea, Japan, and France, all with long histories of oyster culture and consumption. The United States, particularly the Gulf and Atlantic coasts, also contributes notably to the global supply. The industry provides livelihoods for coastal communities, supports culinary traditions, and faces challenges such as disease, pollution, and climate change, making sustainable management crucial for the future of cupped oyster fisheries.

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