Top Ocean Shrimp Fishing Countries

Ocean shrimp, particularly species such as the whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei), northern shrimp (Pandalus borealis), and various penaeid shrimp, are among the most commercially valuable seafood worldwide. These crustaceans are found in coastal and offshore waters, often on sandy or muddy bottoms, and are prized for their delicate flavor and versatility in cuisine. The top ocean shrimp fishing countries include China, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand, which together account for the majority of global shrimp harvests, both from wild capture and aquaculture. In addition to these Asian nations, the United States, Mexico, and Argentina are significant players in wild shrimp fisheries, especially in the Gulf of Mexico and the South Atlantic. The shrimp industry is a major economic driver in these countries, supporting millions of jobs and contributing substantially to export revenues, though it also faces challenges related to overfishing, bycatch, and environmental impacts from both fishing and farming practices.

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