Fishing industry production volume in Japan 2014-2023

The Japanese fishing industry generated an output of approximately 3.7 million tons in 2023, down from almost 4.8 million tons in 2014. The production volume of fisheries and aquacultures in Japan has been fairly stable over the past decade, with a slight downward trend. Marine fisheries are responsible for the highest output of marine products, catching popular fish and seafood species such as tuna, mackerels, and crabs.

 Japanese food culture

Japanese fisheries and aquacultures consistently generated over 1.5 trillion Japanese yen per annum over the past years. As an island nation, the local cuisine is traditionally rich in fish and seafood, which are, together with soy products, the main source of protein. The overall low fat, high nutrient diet, based on seasonal, unprocessed foods, is often claimed to be the secret to Japanese longevity.

 The future of the Japanese fishing industry 

Once the world’s largest fishing nation, Japan is now struggling with overfished waters and international criticism due to its controversial whaling policy. Despite a steady demand for seafood within the country, the trade itself fails to attract younger generations and therefore struggles with a greying workforce. Regulating the industry via an individual quota level to guarantee sustainability is one step the Japanese government could take to improve the profitability of the domestic fishing business. By that, related professions might become a more desirable employment option in the future.