The geoduck (Panopea zelandica) is a large, burrowing clam native to New Zealand's coastal waters, prized for its sweet, delicate meat and remarkable size. While geoduck fisheries are well-established in the Pacific Northwest of North America, New Zealand has developed its own sustainable geoduck fishery, primarily along the North Island’s east coast. The New Zealand geoduck industry is relatively small but growing, with most of the catch exported to Asian markets—especially China and Hong Kong—where geoduck is considered a luxury delicacy. Other countries with significant geoduck fisheries include Canada and the United States (notably Washington State and British Columbia), which dominate global supply. New Zealand's careful management and quota systems ensure the sustainability of its geoduck stocks, positioning it as an emerging player in the international geoduck market.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | New Zealand | 49 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.