Top Hakes Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Hakes, classified under the family Merlucciidae, are demersal fish widely valued for their mild flavor and flaky white flesh, making them a staple in global seafood markets. The term "Top Hakes Not Elsewhere Included" (NEI) in fisheries statistics refers to hake species that are not specifically identified—distinct from well-known species like European hake (Merluccius merluccius) or Argentine hake (Merluccius hubbsi). The leading countries harvesting NEI hakes are primarily concentrated in the Southern Hemisphere, with South Africa, Namibia, Chile, and Argentina being major contributors. These nations have developed significant hake fisheries, often exporting large quantities to Europe and North America. Namibia and South Africa, in particular, manage some of the world's most productive and well-regulated hake fisheries, focusing on sustainable practices to maintain stock health. The fishing industry for NEI hakes is vital to these countries' economies, providing employment, export revenue, and food security, while also facing challenges such as overfishing, bycatch, and the need for continued effective management.

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