In at the moment’s article, we’re diving deep to discover the 20 nations the place fish is greater than only a menu merchandise—it’s a lifestyle. We’re speaking about Fish Consumption by Nation Per Capita, and the place seafood dishes are sometimes thought of nationwide treasures. So, if you happen to’re a seafood aficionado or just interested in world consuming habits, you’re in for a deal with. Let’s get began!
In accordance with the Meals and Agriculture Group (FAO) of the United Nations (UN), in current many years, our urge for food for aquatic meals has been rising quicker than our world inhabitants. To place it in numbers, the consumption of seafood has been growing at a median annual fee of three%, whereas the world’s inhabitants has been rising at a slower tempo of 1.6%. This surge in seafood consumption has been accompanied by a exceptional enhance in world fish manufacturing. Between 1961 and 2017, fish manufacturing quadrupled, outpacing the doubling of the worldwide inhabitants throughout the identical interval.
Learn Extra: Nations With The Highest Espresso Consumption
This spectacular enhance in fish manufacturing might be attributed to ongoing improvements and the emergence of aquaculture over the previous half-century. Aquaculture, generally known as fish farming or aquafarming, entails the cultivation of fish and different aquatic creatures in managed environments, akin to ponds or tanks. It has performed a big position in assembly the rising demand for seafood.
What’s significantly noteworthy is that the common per capita consumption of fish worldwide has additionally doubled throughout this timeframe. This surge in consumption can largely be attributed to the upper yields achieved via aquaculture practices. Actually, aquaculture’s contribution to world fish manufacturing surpassed that of untamed catch, which entails capturing fish and different seafood immediately from their pure habitats like oceans, rivers, and lakes, in 2013.
In a nutshell, our love for seafood has been on the rise, and due to improvements and the expansion of aquaculture, we’ve been capable of sustain with this demand. This shift in how we supply our fish, from primarily wild catch to a extra managed aquaculture method, has been instrumental in sustaining a gradual provide of scrumptious and nutritious seafood for the world’s tables.
Statistics on Seafood Consumption
The worldwide urge for food for seafood has seen fairly a journey through the years, in line with the Meals and Agriculture Group (FAO). Again within the Sixties, the common annual seafood consumption per individual was a modest 9.9 kilograms (kg). Quick ahead to 2019, and we hit a peak of 20.5 kg per capita. Wanting forward, it’s anticipated that by the tip of this decade, the common individual will likely be having fun with round 21.4 kg of fish and seafood every year.
In terms of chowing down on fish, Asia takes the lead, gobbling up a whopping 72% of the world’s complete fish manufacturing. If we slim it right down to particular person international locations, the Maldives, positioned in South Asia, holds the crown for the very best fish consumption per individual as of 2020. Different seafood-loving locations like Kiribati, Macao, and Hong Kong additionally rank among the many high 5 international locations by way of fish consumption per capita worldwide.
Learn Additionally: Nations with Highest Water Consumption within the World
Consultants see a vivid future for fish as a key participant in making certain meals safety, particularly in coastal areas. Why the rising demand? Nicely, there are a couple of components at play. Urbanization in coastal areas, enhancing family incomes, elevated fish manufacturing, extra environment friendly distribution channels, and a rising recognition of fish as a wholesome and nutritious possibility all contribute to the surge in fish’s reputation.
In essence, seafood has come a good distance by way of world consumption, and it appears to be like prefer it’s right here to remain as a significant supply of vitamin for many individuals, significantly these dwelling by the ocean.
Fishing Trade Financial Influence
The fishing business isn’t nearly catching fish; it’s a significant driver of economies worldwide and a big supply of employment. A formidable 58.5 million folks have direct jobs within the fishing sector, whereas a staggering 600 million livelihoods rely partly on fisheries and aquaculture. In 2020, the worldwide fish manufacturing reached an all-time excessive of 214 million tons, underscoring its immense contribution to the world’s meals provide. Inside this, aquaculture hit a file manufacturing stage of 122.6 million tons, valued at a whopping $281.5 billion.
Nonetheless, it’s essential to notice that the worldwide commerce of fishery and aquaculture merchandise skilled a setback in 2020. The commerce dipped to $151 billion, down from the 2018 determine of $165 billion. This decline was primarily attributable to COVID-19-related commerce restrictions that disrupted world provide chains and impacted worldwide commerce.
Wanting forward, there’s a optimistic outlook for the business. It’s projected that 89% of fish manufacturing will likely be supposed for human consumption by 2030. Moreover, fish consumption ranges are anticipated to rise by 18% by the tip of this decade, in comparison with 2018 ranges. These figures paint a rosy image for the fishing business, making it a beautiful prospect for buyers eyeing one of the best shares on this sector.
You Can Learn: Largest Exporters of Blueberries within the World
One outstanding participant within the world seafood market is Mowi ASA (MOWI.OL), a publicly listed firm valued at $9 billion (NOK 99.26 billion). Mowi is famend for its experience in salmon farming and stands as one of many world’s largest producers of Atlantic salmon. They’ve operations spanning a number of international locations, together with Norway, Scotland, Canada, Eire, and Chile. Notably, each Norway and Eire function on the record of nations with the very best fish consumption per capita in 2020.
Apart from Mowi ASA (MOWI.OL), there are different promising aquaculture shares value contemplating. These embrace Aquabounty Applied sciences Inc (NASDAQ:AQB), Leroy Seafood Group ASA (OTCMKTS:LYSFF), and Bakkafrost P/F (OTCMKTS:BKFKF).
In essence, the fishing business is greater than a supply of seafood; it’s a dynamic sector with vital financial influence and a promising future, making it a beautiful area for buyers.
Our Strategy
In terms of figuring out the international locations with the very best per capita fish consumption, we turned to the intensive database provided by Our World in Knowledge. This database serves as a helpful device for gaining insights into world developments and statistics associated to the fishing business. To offer a clearer image, we’ve ranked the highest fish-consuming nations primarily based on their 2020 consumption ranges, ranging from the bottom to the very best.
1. Maldives
Fish Consumption per capita: 87.30 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 521,457
The Maldives, a fascinating archipelago nestled within the Indian Ocean, is well known for its unspoiled seashores and wealthy marine biodiversity. Within the Maldives, fish holds a particular place of their delicacies, being an absolute dietary staple. Among the many numerous fish species savored within the Maldivian kitchen, skipjack tuna takes middle stage. This versatile fish is a star ingredient in lots of beloved dishes, together with mas huni—a conventional breakfast delicacy that includes shredded tuna, coconut, onions, and a contact of chili for a flavorful kick. Notably, in 2020, the Maldives proudly claimed the title of being the very best per capita fish-consuming nation, a testomony to the deep-rooted connection between its folks and the bountiful ocean that surrounds them.
2. Iceland
Fish Consumption per capita: 84.30 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 372,520
Iceland, a fascinating island nation famend for its crystal-clear waters and wealthy marine wealth, boasts a thriving fishing business and a longstanding heritage of savoring seafood. Cod takes the crown as essentially the most beloved fish in Iceland, holding a outstanding spot in Icelandic culinary traditions. This versatile fish finds its means into a big selection of dishes, together with hearty classics like fish stews (often called plokkfiskur), the timeless favourite of fish and chips, and pleasant preparations like pan-fried or grilled cod fillets. It’s secure to say that cod’s presence in Icelandic delicacies is as deep because the ocean waters that encompass this picturesque island.
3. Macao
Fish Consumption per capita: 70.26 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 686,607
Macao, celebrated for its fascinating fusion of Chinese language and Portuguese influences, boasts a culinary panorama as various as its cultural heritage, with a specific highlight on seafood delicacies. Among the many treasures of the ocean, the white pomfret, a sort of pomfret fish, enjoys widespread reputation in Macao. With its delectable taste and flexibility in numerous dishes, it has grow to be a seafood staple within the area. In recognition of its hearty urge for food for fish, Macao proudly claims the third spot on our record of nations with the very best per capita fish consumption.
4. Kiribati
Fish Consumption per capita: 69.22 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 128,874
Kiribati, an idyllic Pacific island nation comprising 33 beautiful coral atolls, boasts a vibrant fishing tradition deeply intertwined with its lifestyle. For the folks of Kiribati, seafood isn’t only a meal; it’s a significant supply of sustenance. Among the many treasures of the ocean, trevally, quite a lot of jackfish, holds a particular place within the hearts and palates of Kiribati locals. Its beautiful taste and flexibility in numerous dishes make it a cherished favourite among the many island’s residents, reflecting the wealthy maritime heritage and reliance on seafood on this enchanting nook of the world.
5. Hong Kong
Fish Consumption per capita: 65.79 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 7,413,100
Hong Kong, a Particular Administrative Area (SAR) of China, boasts a vibrant culinary scene during which seafood takes middle stage. Among the many treasures of the ocean, garoupa or grouper stands out as a extremely prized delicacy in Hong Kong. This beautiful fish typically finds itself on dinner tables steamed with ginger and scallions, a preparation that fantastically accentuates its pure flavors. Steamed garoupa with soy sauce is a signature dish served in quite a few Cantonese seafood eating places, reflecting the deep-rooted appreciation for seafood in Hong Kong’s delicacies. In 2020, Hong Kong’s per capita fish consumption reached a powerful 65.79 kg, underlining town’s enduring love affair with seafood.
6. Portugal
Fish Consumption per capita: 59.36 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 10,325,147
Portugal, with its intensive shoreline and wealthy fishing traditions, holds a profound appreciation for fish and seafood. Among the many culinary treasures, bacalhau, or salted cod, stands as an iconic image of Portuguese delicacies. This versatile fish undergoes a magical transformation, soaked and ready in numerous delectable methods. From Bacalhau à Brás, a flavorful mix of shredded cod with potatoes, onions, and eggs, to Bacalhau com Natas, a creamy cod gratin, and the basic Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá, a comforting cod casserole adorned with onions, potatoes, and olives—Portugal’s love affair with bacalhau is aware of no bounds.
Past Portugal, our record of high fish-consuming nations contains the Maldives, Iceland, and Macao. The rising world demand for fish bodes properly for among the finest fishing shares, together with notable names like Mowi ASA (MOWI.OL), Aquabounty Applied sciences Inc (NASDAQ:AQB), Leroy Seafood Group ASA (OTCMKTS:LYSFF), and Bakkafrost P/F (OTCMKTS:BKFKF). These shares are driving the wave of accelerating urge for food for fish in these international locations and past.
7. Antigua and Barbuda
Fish Consumption per capita: 57.12 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 93,219
Antigua and Barbuda, nestled within the vibrant Caribbean, embrace a wealthy seafood tradition, because of their idyllic coastal setting. Among the many seafood delights cherished within the native delicacies, snapper takes a outstanding place. Whether or not it’s the flavorful crimson snapper or the succulent yellowtail snapper, these fish varieties are beloved staples in Antiguan and Barbudan kitchens. The coastal allure of those islands is fantastically mirrored of their culinary traditions, the place the catch of the day typically graces the tables in scrumptious preparations that includes these snapper treasures.
8. South Korea
Fish Consumption per capita: 54.66 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 51,744,876
South Korea, blessed with an in depth shoreline and teeming marine riches, boasts a vibrant seafood tradition deeply embedded in its culinary traditions. Saengseon, also referred to as Pacific herring, takes middle stage as a beloved fish in South Korean delicacies. This versatile fish finds its means right into a plethora of pleasant dishes, notably that includes within the creation of fish muffins often called eomuk. Saengseon additionally stars as a flavorful filling in quite a lot of dumplings and pancakes.
South Korea’s enduring love for seafood goes hand in hand with its place among the many world’s high fish-consuming nations. The bounty of the ocean performs a pivotal position in shaping the nation’s various and delectable culinary panorama, celebrating the flavors of the ocean in numerous methods.
9. Malaysia
Fish Consumption per capita: 53.33 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 33,573,874
Malaysia, a fascinating Southeast Asian nation celebrated for its wealthy tapestry of culinary traditions, holds a deep and abiding love for fish and seafood. Very similar to its neighbor Indonesia, Malaysia embraces the delectable Ikan Bakar, a dish liked by many. However that’s not all; one other culinary gem that graces Malaysian tables is Assam Pedas, a flavorful and fiery fish stew. This fragrant delight involves life with a mix of components akin to tamarind, chili, lemongrass, and a medley of spices. It’s usually ready with fish varieties like mackerel (ikan kembung), catfish (ikan patin), or snapper (ikan merah), and served alongside steamed rice.
In Malaysia, the appreciation for fish and seafood runs deep, weaving a story of culinary range and a harmonious fusion of flavors that captivate the style buds and replicate the nation’s wealthy meals heritage.
10. Seychelles
Fish Consumption per capita: 52.89 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 99,258
Seychelles, holding the honorable tenth place on our record of nations with the very best per capita fish consumption, stands as a testomony to its deep-seated connection to the ocean. This breathtaking island nation is well known for its vibrant marine ecosystems and the pleasant bounty of recent seafood that graces its shores. In Seychellois delicacies, fish takes middle stage, firmly establishing itself as a vital ingredient.
Among the many stars of the ocean, the crimson snapper shines brightly in Seychelles’ culinary repertoire. This beloved fish isn’t solely an emblem of Seychellois seafood however can be celebrated for its versatility within the kitchen. Whether or not it’s grilled to perfection, delicately steamed, or given a pleasant crispiness via frying, crimson snapper finds its means onto Seychellois plates in numerous tempting types, showcasing the island’s culinary artistry and the flavors of the ocean.
11. Norway
Fish Consumption per capita: 50.57 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 5,408,320
Norway, blessed with an in depth shoreline and teeming chilly, pristine waters, boasts a time-honored legacy of fishing and savoring seafood. In Norwegian culinary traditions, salmon takes the highlight as one of the vital beloved fish. Its reputation is aware of no bounds because it graces tables in numerous pleasant types.
From the engaging attract of smoked salmon, regionally often called “røkt laks,” to the fragile perfection of gravlax, which is salmon cured to mouthwatering tenderness, and the easy pleasure of cooked salmon fillets, Norway is aware of methods to showcase the flexibility of this exceptional fish. Salmon is greater than only a meal; it’s an integral a part of Norwegian delicacies, typically adorning plates as a luxurious principal course, tucked into sandwiches, or serving as a tasty topping for open-faced bread creations. Norway’s connection to the ocean and its appreciation for the treasures it gives are fantastically mirrored within the enduring reputation of salmon on Norwegian tables.
12. Micronesia
Fish Consumption per capita: 48.61 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 113,131
Micronesia, a sprawling expanse of islands within the western Pacific Ocean, is residence to a various array of countries and territories. Unsurprisingly, the native delicacies right here boasts a robust connection to the ocean, because of its proximity to the huge waters that encompass it. Fish and seafood are staples in Micronesian cooking, and among the many many treasures of the ocean, Mahi-Mahi, also referred to as dolphinfish, shines brightly.
Mahi-Mahi’s reputation in Micronesia lies in its versatility and delectable taste. Whether or not it’s expertly grilled to carry out its smoky essence, gently baked to protect its pure succulence, or pan-fried to an ideal crisp, Mahi-Mahi graces Micronesian tables in numerous mouthwatering types. It typically shares the highlight with easy but satisfying companions like rice or a medley of vibrant greens, making a harmonious symphony of flavors that displays the wealthy maritime heritage of Micronesia.
13. Japan
Fish Consumption per capita: 46.65 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 125,681,593
Japan is famend worldwide for its seafood-rich culinary traditions and profound reverence for fish. Among the many treasures of the ocean, bluefin tuna takes a spot of honor, prized for its distinctive high quality. It’s the star of Japan’s sushi and sashimi, delighting palates with its beautiful style and texture.
Hamachi, also referred to as Yellowtail, is one other beloved fish in Japanese delicacies. Its versatility shines via in quite a lot of dishes, whether or not savored as sashimi, expertly grilled to perfection, or featured in sushi rolls. The fragile flavors of Hamachi are celebrated in Japanese culinary artistry.
Japan’s deep connection to the ocean is mirrored in its spectacular per capita consumption of fish, standing at 46.65 kg. Whereas it might maintain the thirteenth spot on our record of nations with the very best per capita fish consumption, Japan’s love affair with fish is something however strange—it’s a culinary journey that showcases the nation’s ardour for seafood in each delectable chunk.
14. Cambodia
Fish Consumption per capita: 46.65 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 16,589,023
Cambodia, an enthralling Southeast Asian nation nestled within the southern a part of the Indochinese Peninsula, boasts an abundance of waterways, together with the mighty Mekong River and the sprawling Tonle Sap Lake. These aquatic riches have formed Cambodia’s culinary panorama, making fish an indispensable ingredient in native delicacies.
Considered one of Cambodia’s culinary treasures is Fish Amok, a dish that has achieved legendary standing. This delectable creation displays the nation’s deep connection to fish, combining it with a symphony of flavors and fragrant spices which might be merely irresistible.
In 2020, Cambodia’s per capita fish consumption reached a powerful 46.65 kg. This determine speaks volumes concerning the integral position that fish performs in Cambodian meals tradition—a testomony to the enduring love for seafood on this picturesque nook of Southeast Asia.
15. Myanmar
Fish Consumption per capita: 45.85 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 53,798,084
Myanmar, located within the coronary heart of Southeast Asia, boasts a vibrant culinary custom that embraces an array of delectable fish dishes. With its intensive shoreline and a labyrinth of winding rivers, fish takes on a outstanding position within the nation’s gastronomy.
On the coronary heart of Myanmar’s culinary heritage is Mohinga, a dish that holds a particular place as a nationwide favourite. This flavorful creation is a testomony to the nation’s enduring love for fish, because it weaves collectively an intricate tapestry of flavors and textures that captivate the style buds.
When it comes to per capita fish consumption, Myanmar holds the fifteenth spot on our record, underlining the deep-rooted connection between the folks of Myanmar and their appreciation for seafood. This culinary affair with fish continues to counterpoint the various and tantalizing flavors of Myanmar’s delicacies.
16. Nauru
Fish Consumption per capita: 44.75 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 12,511
Nauru, a petite island nation nestled within the coronary heart of the Central Pacific, faces challenges with regards to fishing attributable to its restricted land space and surrounding waters. Nonetheless, the folks of Nauru have crafted their culinary traditions across the sources they’ve, making fish a vital ingredient of their delicacies.
One standout dish in Nauruan gastronomy is fish soup, celebrated for its simplicity and heartiness. Sometimes, this comforting meal options fish varieties like grouper or reef fish, simmered in a flavorful broth infused with greens, fragrant herbs, and a medley of spices. The result’s a nourishing and satisfying dish that usually finds its strategy to the dinner desk, accompanied by bread or rice. In Nauru, the resourcefulness of its folks shines via of their culinary creativity, permitting them to savor the flavors of the ocean in a particular and scrumptious method.
17. Indonesia
Fish Consumption per capita: 44.71 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 273,753,191
Indonesia, an expansive archipelago blessed with considerable marine sources, boasts a surprising range of fish species that discover their means into its vibrant delicacies. Among the many culinary gems, grilled fish, regionally known as Ikan Bakar, takes a outstanding place within the hearts and palates of Indonesians. This beloved dish showcases the flexibility of varied fish varieties, together with snapper, grouper, or mackerel, all of that are relished by residents throughout the archipelago.
In Indonesia, the love for seafood runs deep, and the wealthy marine sources that encompass the nation play a pivotal position in shaping its various and flavorful culinary panorama. Grilled fish, with its smoky, succulent attract, displays the nation’s passionate embrace of the ocean’s bounty.
18. Samoa
Fish Consumption per capita: 43.97 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 218,764
Samoa, a picturesque nation nestled within the South Pacific Ocean, boasts a storied historical past that stretches again over 3,000 years. On this island paradise, grilling is not only a cooking technique; it’s a cherished culinary custom, particularly with regards to getting ready fish.
The folks of Samoa have perfected the artwork of grilling numerous fish sorts, together with snapper, mahi-mahi, and trevally. Earlier than hitting the open flame, these fish are handled to a pleasant marinade, that includes a symphony of native herbs, fragrant spices, and zesty lime juice. The result’s a tantalizing medley of flavors that captivates the style buds.
Grilled fish in Samoa is greater than only a meal; it’s a cultural celebration, typically accompanied by staples like taro or breadfruit. This time-honored custom displays the deep connection between the Samoan folks and the ocean that surrounds their stunning homeland, making a eating expertise that’s each scrumptious and wealthy in heritage.
19. French Polynesia
Fish Consumption per capita: 43.95 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 304,032
French Polynesia, a surprising assortment of islands nestled within the South Pacific, boasts a delicacies deeply intertwined with the bounties of the ocean. Seafood takes middle stage within the native gastronomy, and among the many cherished dishes, Poisson Cru stands out as a beloved custom.
Poisson Cru, a time-honored delicacy, showcases the pristine flavors of the ocean. Sometimes that includes uncooked fish, typically tuna or mahi-mahi, this dish undergoes a transformative journey because it’s marinated in zesty lime juice and luxuriously creamy coconut milk. The result’s a refreshing and pleasant medley of tastes and textures that pay homage to French Polynesia’s maritime heritage.
In French Polynesia, Poisson Cru is greater than only a meal; it’s a culinary treasure, a celebration of the area’s considerable marine sources, and a testomony to the islanders’ enduring connection to the ocean.
20. Barbados
Fish Consumption per capita: 43.88 kg
Complete Inhabitants: 281,200
Barbados, a fascinating Caribbean island nation celebrated for its pristine seashores and full of life tradition, thrives on a various financial panorama that features tourism and offshore finance. Amid this vibrant backdrop, a culinary gem takes middle stage—the flying fish, affectionately often called the flying cod.
This exceptional fish, with its daring leaps above the Caribbean waves, has earned the standing of a nationwide dish in Barbados. It graces tables in numerous pleasant preparations, typically accompanied by a aspect of cou-cou. This conventional Bajan dish is a harmonious mix of cornmeal and okra, serving as the proper complement to the flying fish’s succulent flavors.
In Barbados, the love for this culinary pairing runs deep, reflecting each the island’s wealthy meals tradition and its shut connection to the ocean. It’s a flavorful celebration of the nation’s heritage and a testomony to the irresistible attract of the Caribbean’s culinary traditions.