Eucheuma seaweeds, primarily Eucheuma cottonii and Eucheuma spinosum, are red algae species highly valued for their carrageenan content, a gelatinous substance widely used in food processing, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Unlike finfish, these seaweeds are cultivated and harvested in shallow tropical marine environments, with the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia standing out as the top producers globally. These countries benefit from ideal coastal conditions and have developed extensive seaweed farming industries, supporting thousands of coastal communities. The Eucheuma seaweed industry is crucial for local economies, providing livelihoods and export revenue, particularly in Southeast Asia, where demand for carrageenan continues to drive expansion and innovation in cultivation and processing techniques.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mexico | 815 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.