Top Gazami Crab Fishing Countries

The Gazami crab (Portunus trituberculatus), also known as the Japanese blue crab, is a highly valued marine crustacean found in the coastal waters of the western Pacific, particularly around East Asia. Renowned for its sweet, tender meat, the Gazami crab supports one of the world’s largest crab fisheries. China is by far the leading country in Gazami crab production, accounting for the vast majority of the global catch, with annual landings often exceeding 500,000 metric tons. South Korea and Japan are also significant harvesters, with well-established fisheries that supply both domestic and export markets. The fishing industry for Gazami crab in these countries is a vital economic activity, utilizing a mix of traditional traps, pots, and trawl nets, and is closely managed to ensure sustainability due to the species’ commercial importance and high demand in regional cuisine.

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