Herrings and sardines, grouped under the category "Sardines, sardinellas, brisling, and sprats, not elsewhere included," are small, schooling pelagic fish prized for their high oil content and nutritional value. These species play a crucial role in marine ecosystems and are a staple in global fisheries, often processed into canned products, fishmeal, and oil. The top fishing countries for these species include China, Indonesia, Morocco, Norway, and Peru. China and Indonesia lead the world in overall catch, utilizing large-scale and artisanal fleets to supply both domestic consumption and export markets. Morocco is renowned for its robust sardine canning industry, exporting significant quantities to Europe and beyond. Norway and Peru, with their advanced fishing fleets and processing facilities, focus on both direct human consumption and industrial uses, such as fishmeal production for aquaculture. The sustainable management of these fisheries is vital, as they support millions of livelihoods and are integral to food security in many coastal communities.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Timor-Leste | 1,468 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.