Fishing is more than a way of life, it’s a critical source of food, jobs, and trade for millions across Africa.
The continent’s coastal waters, lakes, and rivers support vibrant fishing economies that feed local communities and export globally.
Some companies and cooperatives are leading the way with sustainable practices, cold-chain solutions, and large-scale operations.
Here are Top 5 key players in Africa’s fishing industry:
— Atlantic Shrimpers Ltd (Nigeria): One of Nigeria’s largest seafood exporters. Known for shrimp trawling and advanced cold storage facilities.
— Premier Fishing and Brands (South Africa): A publicly listed company specializing in lobster, hake, squid, and abalone for both local and international markets.
— Pesca D’El Mar (Morocco): A major fish processor and exporter, focused on sardines, mackerel, and anchovies for global distribution.
— Scombrus Ltd (Senegal): A key West African company engaged in sustainable pelagic fishing and local fishmeal production.
— Ocean Fresh Seafoods (Mozambique): Works in coastal fisheries, seafood processing, and value-added exports, with a focus on traceability and freshness.
Other operators are contributing to the industry’s growth, but these five continue to anchor Africa’s position in global seafood trade.
This ranking is based on production volume, export capacity, and commitment to sustainability. Data was sourced from company reports, industry publications, and verified trade statistics as of mid-2025.
Image Credit: Mongabay
