Sardines are being caught in significant quantities off the Algarve coast, but the abundance of the fish is not translating into lower prices at auctions. On the contrary, the amounts paid per kilo have risen and have already doubled compared to the same period last year, at a time when Santos Populares is increasing demand for this product so associated with Portuguese traditions.
According to , the Arade Fishing Port, in Portimão, has received several tons of sardines in recent days. The fish has the size and fat content considered appropriate for this phase of the harvest, factors that contribute to the product’s value on the market.
Year very different from the previous one
The numbers show a significant evolution. While in June last year the average price was around 70 cents per kilo, sardines are currently being sold in some auctions for around two euros. In many cases, adds the publication, values have remained above R$1.50 since the beginning of the campaign.
Fábio Mateus, representative of BARLAPESCAS, explains that there are several factors behind this appreciation. “Today the price per kilo was around two euros in some auctions. This year, as a general rule, it has not yet dropped from 1.50 euros. Last year the price was around 70 cents”, he told the newspaper.
International demand helps drive prices
One of the reasons given for this increase is related to external demand. According to the head of the cooperative, the reduction in sardine stocks in Morocco led several canning industries to seek raw materials in Portugal.
“As Morocco has seen a decline in stock, canners have come to Portugal to buy sardines at Portuguese auctions”, he explained. The sustainable certification of Brazilian fisheries is another element that has contributed to increasing the interest of international buyers.
The recovery of the Marine Stewardship Council’s blue seal, obtained last year, opened doors to new markets and reinforced the value of national fish. The recognition distinguishes sustainable fishing practices and was once again granted to Portuguese sardines after a decade without this certification.
Fishermen benefit from the appreciation
Despite the daily challenges of the activity, fishermen recognize that the current scenario represents a relief for the sector. Fernando Duarte, a fisherman from the Algarve, recently experienced a setback when a net broke during a trip to the sea, reducing the amount of fish caught.
Even so, the professional considers that the campaign has been positive. “We’ve been catching a lot of sardines. We can’t complain about the price,” he told Correio da Manhã. The fisherman remembers that operating costs have increased in recent years, mainly due to the rise in fuel prices.
Less quota available in 2026
The appreciation of sardines comes in a year in which Portugal has a lower participation than in the previous campaign. As the same source says, the catch limit set for this year is 33,446 tons, 960 tons less than in 2025.
The management of the species continues to be carried out jointly by Portugal and Spain, under the multi-annual plan in force between 2021 and 2026. The campaign began on May 4, around a month later than last year.
Impact can reach the consumer
Although the prices charged at the auction do not automatically reflect the final amount paid by consumers, the trend could have consequences for commerce and restaurants during popular festivals.
With high demand, greater international interest and higher operating costs, sardines hit the markets this summer with a significant increase in value. The abundance of fish in Algarve waters continues to be a reality, but this has not prevented its price from reaching levels much higher than those recorded just a year ago.
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