Kuwait’s fish sales reach US$3.2M in first quarter
508 tons of local fish sold between January and March
KUWAIT – Kuwait’s Central Statistical Bureau has reported that the total value of locally sold fish in the first quarter of 2025 amounted to about US$3.2 million (KD970,511).
The data showed that sales covered 508 tons of fish across January, February and March, with four species absent during the period due to seasonal restrictions and fishing bans.
Among the missing species were shrimp, maid, halawaya and kasour, which are normally found in Kuwaiti waters but were not recorded in catches at the start of the year.
The report linked this to regulated fishing seasons, including the shrimp ban that is enforced until August and remains in place through the end of November.
While these species were absent, nuwaibi stood out as the most abundant fish during the first quarter, with 117 tons sold at a value of roughly US$786,000 (KD240,000).
Looking at monthly figures, January recorded the highest volume at 192 tons, generating about US$1.1 million (KD340,000).
Kingfish was the leading catch for the month, with 37 tons sold and valued at around US$183,000 (KD56,000).
In February, fish sales dropped slightly to 167 tons with a market value of US$1.05 million (KD325,000).
Tilapia dominated that month, with 51 tons sold for approximately US$328,000 (KD101,000).
March continued the trend with a total catch of 148 tons, bringing in about US$984,000 (KD304,000).
Tilapia again led in quantity, with 46 tons valued at roughly US$286,000 (KD88,000).
Key species and demand
The statistics further indicated that several fish remain particularly significant in Kuwait’s markets, both locally and in international waters.
These include shrimp, sea bream and grouper, which continue to be in demand because of their economic value and popularity among consumers.
The first quarter report highlights fluctuations in the local fish trade, shaped by fishing bans, seasonal patterns and shifts in consumer demand across different species.
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