Worldwide abalone Farming Production. There are currently 15 abalone farms on the coast of California, the majority of which have begun operations in just the last 5-7 years. The largest is currently selling about one million abalone per year and the smaller farms 50,000 or less. The farmed size is normally 3 to 4 inches and they are available live or processed. In 1999 total produced was approximately 115 metric tons.
Japan has many major farming operations, most of which are involved in ocean enhancement.
30 to 40 million seeds are planted annually. Almost all Japanese farming consists of ocean bottom growing from farmed seeds. Japan produces 25 to 30 million seeds per year. Total production is over 2,500 tons, most of which is consumed in Taiwan.1999 production is expected to exceed 1500 metric tons. Farmed production is estimated at 150 tons for 1999.