Top Southern White Shrimp Fishing Countries

The Southern white shrimp (Litopenaeus schmitti) is a commercially valuable crustacean native to the warm coastal waters of the western Atlantic, particularly along the coasts of South and Central America. Recognized for its sweet, tender flesh, this shrimp species is a staple of both local diets and international seafood markets. The top countries harvesting Southern white shrimp are Brazil, Venezuela, and Colombia, where extensive estuarine and mangrove habitats support robust wild populations. In addition to wild capture, aquaculture has become increasingly important, particularly in Brazil, which leads regional production. These countries’ shrimp fisheries and farms contribute significantly to local economies, providing employment and export revenue, though they also face challenges related to overfishing, habitat loss, and the need for sustainable management practices.

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