Top Sea Urchins, Etc. Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Sea urchins, along with other echinoderms not elsewhere included (such as sea cucumbers), are highly valued in global seafood markets, especially for their roe, known as "uni" in Japanese cuisine. These species are primarily harvested in cold and temperate coastal waters, with leading fishing countries including Japan, Chile, the United States (notably California and Alaska), Russia, and Canada. Japan has a long history of consuming and cultivating sea urchins, making it both a top producer and the largest consumer worldwide. Chile’s extensive Pacific coastline supports a significant commercial fishery, primarily for export to Asian markets. The U.S. and Canada also maintain robust fisheries, with strict management practices to prevent overharvesting. The industry is characterized by a mix of wild capture and, increasingly, aquaculture, as demand for high-quality roe continues to grow globally.

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