Sardine prices in Moroccan markets have climbed to about 50 dirhams per kilogram in recent days, in a development that comes as the biological rest period draws to a close and Ramadan approaches, amid rising demand for seafood.
The increase, observed in several cities, concerns a widely consumed fish that serves as an essential protein source for a broad segment of Moroccan households, particularly those with limited and middle incomes, especially during the period leading up to the fasting month.
According to professional and union sources, the surge is attributed to multiple factors, including the continued biological rest period over the past weeks, which resulted in a near-total absence of pelagic species such as sardines and anchovies from the markets.
Adverse weather conditions and elevated wave levels along the coasts further contributed to the suspension of numerous artisanal and coastal fishing trips, reducing the quantities made available for sale.
A decline in frozen sardine reserves, previously relied upon to cover supply gaps, has also been reported, expanding the imbalance between supply and demand and leading to higher prices, as stakeholders anticipate the restart of fishing operations and a potential stabilization of the market depending on weather conditions and catch volumes in the days ahead.