Top Hampala Barb Fishing Countries

The Hampala barb (Hampala macrolepidota), also known as the Hampala or jungle perch, is a fast-swimming freshwater fish native to Southeast Asia, recognized for its torpedo-shaped body and distinctive black lateral stripe. This species inhabits rivers and streams across Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Laos, and Cambodia, where it is both a popular target for local subsistence and recreational anglers due to its fighting spirit and culinary value. Thailand and Malaysia are particularly prominent in the Hampala barb fishing industry, with the fish commonly harvested for local markets and, to a lesser extent, aquaculture. In Indonesia, especially on the islands of Sumatra and Borneo, the Hampala barb is also caught for food and occasionally exported regionally. While not a major export species, Hampala barb fishing supports rural livelihoods and contributes to the rich fishing traditions of these Southeast Asian countries.

RankCountryMetric Tons
1Indonesia3,527

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