Gabon halts sardine and “sans nom” fish exports to boost national supply

The Gabonese government has taken decisive action to secure the national supply of seafood. Effective March 26, 2026, a temporary nationwide prohibition on the export of sardines (Ethmalosa fimbriata) and the fish known locally as « sans nom » (Heterotis niloticus) has been enforced. This crucial policy shift, formally enacted through two decrees from the Ministry of Sea, Fisheries, and Blue Economy and published in the Official Gazette on April 16, 2026, directly addresses a growing scarcity observed in domestic markets. With these species frequently finding their way to neighboring countries, particularly via border regions like Cocobeach, authorities are now prioritizing local consumption and aiming to curb the unregulated outflow of these valuable aquatic resources.

Just last May 30, Marie Françoise Dikoumba, the Governor of Estuaire province, visited Cocobeach to underscore the mandatory nature of this new regulation to local fishers, traders, and transporters. This outreach initiative comes amid significant consumer concern over the dwindling availability of sardines in local markets. Officials believe that continued exports to adjacent nations are disrupting the national supply balance, leading to escalating prices and making it increasingly difficult for households to access these essential dietary staples.

safeguarding fish stocks and bolstering food security

The two recently issued decrees clarify that this temporary prohibition aims to streamline production and distribution channels, stabilize the domestic market’s supply, and combat rampant price increases. Furthermore, authorities are keen to improve the traceability of fishery products, secure future export operations, and ensure adherence to stringent sanitary standards. This policy forms a crucial part of the government’s broader efforts to alleviate the high cost of living and strengthen national food sovereignty, both declared priorities for the public administration.

The Ministry of Sea also highlights increasing pressure on sardine stocks within Gabonese waters and on « sans nom » populations in the nation’s river and lake systems. By temporarily halting exports, the state seeks to facilitate the replenishment of biological resources in heavily exploited areas, thereby ensuring the sustainable management of these species. Violators of this ban face penalties outlined in the Fisheries Code, which include the confiscation of cargo, revocation of fishing permits, and even legal prosecution, unless an exceptional authorization has been granted by the relevant administrative body.