The Kuruma prawn (Penaeus japonicus), also known as the Japanese tiger prawn, is a highly valued marine crustacean prized for its sweet flavor and firm texture. Native to the Indo-West Pacific region, this species is commonly found in coastal waters and estuaries. The top countries involved in Kuruma prawn fishing and aquaculture are Japan, China, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Japan has a long history of both wild capture and advanced aquaculture techniques for this species, often supplying high-end domestic and international markets. China and Taiwan have developed extensive aquaculture operations, making them leading producers and exporters. Vietnam has also expanded its production in recent decades, contributing significantly to global supply. The Kuruma prawn industry is characterized by a combination of traditional fishing and modern aquaculture, with ongoing efforts to balance economic value with sustainability and resource management.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Japan | 200 |
2 | Republic of Korea | 138 |
3 | Taiwan Province of China | 108 |
4 | Israel | 10 |
5 | France | 7 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.