Top Wellington Flying Squid Fishing Countries

The Wellington flying squid (Todarodes pacificus), also known as the Japanese flying squid, is a fast-swimming cephalopod found in the northwest Pacific Ocean, particularly around Japan, Korea, and China. Renowned for its commercial value, this squid species is a staple in East Asian cuisine and a vital component of regional fisheries. The top countries harvesting Wellington flying squid are Japan, China, and South Korea, which together account for the majority of global landings. Japan historically leads the industry, with highly developed fishing fleets and processing infrastructure, while China and South Korea have significantly expanded their squid fisheries in recent decades. These countries employ advanced jigging techniques and large-scale operations to meet both domestic demand and international export markets, making the Wellington flying squid a cornerstone of their marine economies.

RankCountryMetric Tons
1New Zealand32,442

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