Rabat – The Moroccan State Secretariat in charge of Fisheries has announced a temporary restriction on sardine exports, effective from February 1, for one year. The decision applies to frozen, fresh, and chilled sardines and aims to prioritize the domestic market while ensuring sustainable fishing practices.
The measure does not affect any other types of fish, and authorities say its impact will be limited. The approach aims to support the national market, improve supply, and promote the sustainable use of small pelagic fish, which are important for food security, according to the secretariat.
The decision was made after consultations with professionals in the sector, including meetings with industry representatives. Partnerships between freezing industries and canning companies are also being encouraged to ensure the positive effects of this decision across the sector.
Many Moroccans have expressed frustration over the rising cost of sardines, a staple food often called “the fish of the poor.” Prices have climbed dramatically in local markets, with sardines often selling for around MAD 25 and 30 per kilogram and even higher in some cities, far above what many families can afford.
This surge has sparked public outcry and calls for stronger government action to control prices and protect consumers. At the same time, Morocco remains one of the world’s leading producers and exporters of sardines, with frozen sardine exports alone generating significant foreign revenue and the country exporting large quantities to markets in Europe, Russia, and West Africa.
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The Secretariat said that the restriction is not expected to create problems for fishermen, processors, or intermediaries. Instead, it should help maintain the activity of small pelagic fisheries and stabilize the domestic market.
Data shows that southern ports, particularly between Agadir and Dakhla, supply more than 30% of the national fish market. These ports play a key role in increasing supply and stabilizing prices, especially as climate changes have reduced the availability of small pelagic fish.
Morocco has around 100 small pelagic fish freezing units nationwide, including 23 in Laayoune. Exports of frozen small pelagic fish reached MAD 3.12 billion in 2025, with sardines representing only 23% of the total.
The secretariat said the local market and industry can absorb the export share previously sent abroad to help stabilize prices and support social peace.
The Secretariat noted that other small pelagic fish, such as mackerel and horse mackerel, can continue to be processed and exported normally. The share of sardines in frozen small pelagic fish exports has decreased from 70% in 2020 to 23% in 2025, while other species have increased from 30% to 77%.
