Fishing industry nets jobs and billions despite small economic share
Image: Charles Dagnall
Even though the sardine run for this year is officially over, with the reopening of Amanzimtoti Beach following the end of the seasonal fish sea trip, the marine sector remains an important contributor to South Africa's economy.
Recent information from Statistics South Africa noted the sector employs just over 16 000 people across South Africa.
'Although the 2025 sardine run has come to an end, the fishing industry continues to play an essential role in supporting coastal communities and contributing to the economy,' it said.
The fishing industry contributes around 0.2% to the South African economy. However, when considering the entire value chain of the sector, including related industries, its contribution to gross domestic product can reach about 3%.
Caught fish generated R5.4 billion in 2023, making it the second-largest income source within the marine fishing sector. Processed fish was the top income earner.
Total industry income reached R19.9 billion last year. While this places it well behind larger industries, such as manufacturing, for example, the marine fishing sector remains vital for food security and livelihoods.
The annual migration of sardines along South Africa's east coast, which takes place between May and July, provides seasonal economic benefits for fishing communities along the KwaZulu-Natal coastline.
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Statistics South Africa said that the run also highlights the value of South Africa's marine resources. It said the ocean (marine) fisheries and related services industry remains a significant contributor to food supply, employment, and economic activity, despite being the smallest of the 16 industries surveyed in the agency's recent series of industry-specific reports.
Measured by catch volume, anchovy was the most harvested fish species in 2023, with 152 431 metric tons landed. In South Africa, anchovies are used primarily to produce fishmeal and oil rather than for human consumption.
Hake was the second-largest species caught by volume, followed by sardines. However, hake generated the highest income, accounting for more than a quarter of total revenue from caught fish in 2023, said Statistics South Africa.
This fish brought in R1.4 billion, up from R700 million in 2014.
According to Stats South Africa, hake is a staple in South African households. It makes up 0.8% of total household food spending, as reflected in the consumer inflation basket – more than beef steak, sausages or meat patties.
Other species such as squid and tuna also showed significant growth in value, contributing more to the industry's income compared to previous years.
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