The great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias) is one of the ocean’s most iconic apex predators, known for its size, powerful build, and distinctive conical snout. Historically, great white sharks have been targeted for their jaws, teeth, fins, and meat, as well as for sport fishing and trophy hunting. The primary countries associated with great white shark fishing have included the United States (notably California), South Africa, Australia, and, to a lesser extent, Japan and New Zealand. However, due to the species’ vulnerability to overfishing and declining populations, most of these countries have implemented strict protections and bans on great white shark fishing. Today, the fishing industry for great whites is largely replaced by ecotourism ventures such as cage diving, especially in South Africa and Australia, and the species is protected under international agreements like CITES and national laws in many regions.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mexico | 2 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.