Top Mozambique Lobster Fishing Countries

The Mozambique lobster (Panulirus ornatus), also known as the ornate spiny lobster, is a highly prized crustacean found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, including the coastal waters of Mozambique, Madagascar, Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Characterized by its vibrant coloration and long, spiny antennae, this lobster is a valuable commodity in global seafood markets, especially in Asia. The top countries harvesting Mozambique lobster are Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, with significant contributions also from Mozambique and Madagascar. These nations have developed robust fisheries targeting this species, both for domestic consumption and lucrative export markets, often employing a mix of traditional and modern fishing methods. Sustainable management of Mozambique lobster stocks is a growing concern, as high demand and overfishing threaten the long-term viability of this important fishery.

RankCountryMetric Tons
1Mozambique1,123
2South Africa584

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