Top Hairtails, Scabbardfishes Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Hairtails and scabbardfishes, often grouped under the family Trichiuridae, are elongated, silvery predatory fish commonly found in tropical and temperate oceans worldwide. Known for their ribbon-like bodies and sharp teeth, these species—such as the largehead hairtail (Trichiurus lepturus)—are highly valued in both commercial and artisanal fisheries. The top fishing countries for hairtails and scabbardfishes not elsewhere included (NEI) are predominantly in Asia, with China being by far the largest harvester, followed by countries like India, Indonesia, South Korea, and Japan. These nations have developed robust fisheries targeting hairtails, which are popular in local cuisines and often exported fresh, frozen, or dried. The industry is characterized by both large-scale trawl fleets and small-scale coastal fishers, and the catch is typically used for direct human consumption, reflecting the species’ economic and cultural importance in the region.

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