Top European Pilchard Sardine Fishing Countries

The European pilchard (Sardina pilchardus), commonly known as the sardine, is a small, schooling, oily fish found throughout the northeast Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Renowned for its commercial importance, the European pilchard supports significant fisheries in countries such as Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, and Morocco. Spain and Portugal are particularly prominent, with sardines being a staple in local cuisine and a major export product. France, especially in Brittany, also has a longstanding tradition of sardine fishing and canning. Morocco, while not in Europe, is a major harvester along the Atlantic coast and supplies much of the global market. The industry is characterized by both traditional small-scale fisheries and modern industrial fleets, with catches processed fresh, canned, or salted, making the European pilchard a vital economic and cultural resource for these nations.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.