Top Shrimp Scad Fishing Countries

The shrimp scad (Alepes djedaba) is a medium-sized, schooling marine fish found in tropical and subtropical coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific region, recognized for its slender, silver body and importance in both commercial and artisanal fisheries. This species is particularly abundant in the Indian Ocean and western Pacific, with leading fishing countries including India, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Malaysia. These nations harvest shrimp scad using purse seines, gillnets, and trawls, supplying local markets where the fish is valued for its affordability and nutritional content. In India, especially along the west coast, shrimp scad supports small-scale fishers and forms a significant part of the coastal catch, while in Southeast Asia, it is commonly sold fresh or processed into dried and salted products. The fishery is vital for food security and livelihoods in these regions, although monitoring and management are increasingly important to ensure sustainable stocks.

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