Top Indian Oil Sardine Fishing Countries

The Indian oil sardine (*Sardinella longiceps*) is a small, oily pelagic fish found primarily in the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean, especially along the coasts of India, Sri Lanka, and parts of Southeast Asia. Renowned for its high nutritional value and economic importance, this species forms the backbone of the sardine fishing industry in the region. India is by far the leading country in harvesting Indian oil sardines, with the southwestern states of Kerala, Karnataka, and Goa being major contributors due to their extensive continental shelves and upwelling zones that favor sardine abundance. Sri Lanka also maintains a significant fishery, while smaller catches are reported from countries like Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Oman. The Indian oil sardine fishery is vital for local economies, providing employment, affordable protein, and supporting both domestic consumption and export markets, though it is subject to fluctuations due to environmental factors and fishing pressures.

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