Top Red Snow Crab Fishing Countries

The red snow crab (Chionoecetes japonicus), also known as the red queen crab, is a cold-water crustacean prized for its sweet, delicate meat and is predominantly found in the waters of the northwestern Pacific, particularly around Japan, Russia, and Korea. The top red snow crab fishing countries are Japan, Russia, and South Korea, with Japan leading both in catch volume and market demand, especially from the Sea of Japan and the Sea of Okhotsk. Russia also maintains a significant fishery in the Far East, particularly in the Bering Sea and the Sea of Okhotsk, exporting large quantities to Asian markets. South Korea, though with a smaller share, actively harvests red snow crab in its eastern coastal waters. The red snow crab industry is vital to the economies of these countries, supporting both local consumption and lucrative export markets, while being regulated to prevent overfishing and ensure sustainability.

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