Morocco Halts Frozen Sardine Exports Amid Supply Decline
Morocco will halt frozen sardine exports starting February 1, 2026, following a 46% decline in sardine landings in 2024. This move aims to protect domestic supplies and stabilize prices, as sardines are a staple food for Moroccan households.
Morocco, known as the world's leading exporter of sardines, has announced a significant policy shift by halting exports of frozen sardines starting February 1, 2026. This decision follows a dramatic 46% decline in sardine landings during 2024, which fell to 525,000 metric tons, as reported by official data. The announcement was made by Zakia Driouich zakia driouich, the cabinet member in charge of fisheries, during a parliamentary session on January 7, 2026.
The primary objective of this export ban is to safeguard domestic supplies and control prices, ensuring that sardines, a staple food for many Moroccan households, remain affordable. The country's extensive Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines have long supported its position as a global sardine exporter, with pelagic species such as sardines comprising approximately 80% of Morocco's coastal fish resources.
