Top Wakame Fishing Countries

Wakame (Undaria pinnatifida) is a highly valued edible seaweed native to the cold temperate coastal areas of northwest Pacific Ocean, particularly around Japan, Korea, and China. It is renowned for its delicate flavor and nutritional benefits, making it a staple in East Asian cuisine. The top wakame-producing countries are Japan, South Korea, and China, which have developed extensive aquaculture operations to meet both domestic and international demand. In Japan, wakame has been harvested for centuries, with regions like Sanriku and Mie Prefecture being particularly famous for their production. South Korea is also a major player, cultivating wakame (called "miyeok" locally) along its southern and eastern coasts. China has rapidly expanded its wakame farming industry in recent decades, becoming a significant exporter. The industry relies on both wild harvesting and large-scale seaweed farming, with sustainable aquaculture practices increasingly emphasized to protect marine ecosystems.

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