Top Pacific Bluefin Tuna Fishing Countries

The Pacific bluefin tuna (Thunnus orientalis) is a highly prized, fast-swimming pelagic fish known for its immense size, speed, and value in the global sushi and sashimi markets. This species ranges across the Pacific Ocean, with spawning grounds near Japan and migratory routes extending to the eastern Pacific. The top Pacific bluefin tuna fishing countries are Japan, Mexico, South Korea, Taiwan, and the United States. Japan is the largest harvester and consumer, with a deeply rooted cultural and economic connection to bluefin tuna, especially for sushi. Mexico’s fisheries, particularly off the Baja California coast, target juvenile bluefin for ranching and export to Japan. South Korea and Taiwan operate large-scale longline and purse seine fleets, while the United States, mainly California, has a smaller but significant fishery. Overfishing concerns have led to international management efforts, but the high demand and lucrative market continue to drive intense fishing pressure on this iconic species.

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