Top Inshore Squids Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

“Inshore squids not elsewhere included” refers to various squid species caught in coastal and nearshore waters that are not classified under more commonly known commercial squid categories, such as the Japanese flying squid or the European squid. These squids are typically small to medium in size, fast-growing, and play a crucial role in marine food webs. The fishing industry for these squids is significant in countries with extensive coastlines and productive inshore ecosystems. Top harvesting nations include China, Thailand, India, and Vietnam, where artisanal and small-scale fisheries use jigging, trawling, and seine nets to capture these versatile cephalopods. The catch is primarily used for human consumption, both domestically and for export, supporting local economies and providing a vital protein source in many coastal communities.

RankCountryMetric Tons
1France5,558
2Belgium61
3Sweden4

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