Top Highfin King Croaker Fishing Countries

The Highfin King Croaker (Nibea albiflora), also known as the white croaker or yellow drum, is a demersal fish species found primarily in the coastal waters of the Northwest Pacific, especially around China, Korea, and Japan. Recognized for its high dorsal fin and silvery body, this species is highly valued in regional cuisines and is a significant target for both commercial and artisanal fisheries. China is the leading country in harvesting Highfin King Croaker, with large-scale operations in the East China Sea and Yellow Sea, followed by South Korea and Japan, where the fish is caught both for domestic consumption and export. The fishing industry for this species is characterized by trawl and gillnet fisheries, and while it provides economic benefits to coastal communities, concerns over overfishing and habitat degradation have prompted some management and conservation efforts in recent years.

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