France Sardine Shortage: Morocco Export Ban Sparks Supply Crisis

On TikTok, young people’s enthusiasm for this affordable product has boosted sales by 27% among under-35s between 2025 and 2026. But this frenzy collides with a complex logistical reality: France imports three times more than it catches. Facing a shortage in its own waters, the world’s leading exporter—Morocco—now imposes export licenses on frozen fish to prioritize its own industry. A decision that is disrupting the market, according to an investigation published in Ouest-France.

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Faced with this raw material lockdown, each brand is developing its own solution to avoid stock shortages. The Parmentier chain, for example, has redirected much of its supplies toward Portugal, where resources are considered abundant. Meanwhile, the Vendée-based group Gendreau is betting on self-sufficiency by directly operating its four fishing vessels to guarantee fresh catches and avoid the pitfalls of the international frozen market.

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The Finistère company Chancerelle has opted for a much more strategic direct implantation approach. By operating two factories in Morocco, the manufacturer transforms and packages its catches directly before shipping them to Europe. This local production method completely eliminates restrictions targeting raw fish. "For sardines already in cans, no license required, and we have all the authorizations to export them," confirms Charles Mulliez, its marketing director.