King crabs, particularly the red king crab (Paralithodes camtschaticus), are among the most prized crustaceans in the global seafood market, renowned for their large size and sweet, tender meat. These crabs are native to the cold waters of the North Pacific Ocean, especially the Bering Sea and surrounding areas. The top king crab fishing countries are Russia and the United States, with Russia’s Far East (notably the Barents Sea, where the species was introduced) and Alaska being the primary harvesting regions. Both countries have developed significant commercial fisheries, employing strict management practices to ensure sustainability due to the high demand and value of king crab. Norway has also become a notable player, especially after the species was introduced to its northern waters. The king crab industry is vital to the economies of these regions, supporting local communities and contributing to global seafood exports.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States of America | 2,057 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.