"Sharks not elsewhere included" refers to various shark species that are not classified under specific commercial categories such as blue shark, shortfin mako, or dogfish, and instead encompass a diverse group of lesser-known or mixed shark catches. These sharks are targeted or caught as bycatch in both artisanal and industrial fisheries, often for their meat, fins, and cartilage. The leading countries harvesting these miscellaneous shark species include Indonesia, India, Spain, Taiwan, and Mexico. Indonesia and India are particularly notable for their large artisanal fleets and high domestic consumption, while Spain and Taiwan are major players in the global shark fin trade, exporting to markets in East Asia. The fishing industry for these sharks is often poorly regulated, with limited species-specific data, raising concerns about overfishing and the sustainability of shark populations in many regions.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Argentina | 666 |
2 | Iran (Islamic Republic of) | 487 |
3 | Saudi Arabia | 471 |
4 | Pakistan | 169 |
5 | New Zealand | 115 |
6 | Martinique | 25 |
7 | Guadeloupe | 10 |
8 | Belgium | 6 |
9 | French Guiana | 2 |
9 | Norway | 2 |
11 | France | 1 |
11 | United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.