Top Ommastrephidae Squids Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Ommastrephidae squids, commonly known as flying squids, are a family of fast-swimming, pelagic cephalopods found in oceans worldwide and are highly valued in global fisheries for their culinary and economic importance. Notably, several species within this family, such as the neon flying squid (Ommastrephes bartramii) and the Argentine shortfin squid (Illex argentinus), are targeted by large-scale commercial fisheries. The top fishing countries for Ommastrephidae squids “not elsewhere included” (NEI) typically include China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Spain. These nations operate expansive fleets, often using jigging and trawling methods in the Pacific and Southwest Atlantic Oceans. The industry is characterized by high annual catches, driven by strong international demand, particularly in East Asia and Southern Europe, where squid is a dietary staple and a key export commodity.

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