The silver pomfret (Pampus argenteus) is a prized marine fish known for its delicate, mild-flavored flesh and distinctive silvery, flat body. It inhabits the warm coastal waters of the Indo-West Pacific region, making it a staple in many Asian cuisines. The top silver pomfret fishing countries include India, Iran, Pakistan, Kuwait, and China, where this species is harvested both by traditional artisanal fishers and modern commercial fleets. India, particularly along its western coast, and Iran’s Persian Gulf fisheries are especially renowned for their silver pomfret catches, which are highly valued in local and export markets. Sustainable management is increasingly important, as high demand has led to concerns about overfishing and stock depletion in some regions.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | India | 22,816 |
2 | Malaysia | 6,401 |
3 | Iran (Islamic Republic of) | 1,540 |
4 | Thailand | 463 |
5 | Taiwan Province of China | 276 |
6 | Iraq | 130 |
7 | Kuwait | 69 |
8 | Saudi Arabia | 3 |
9 | Portugal | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.