Thomas Matrakoukas, a store manager at the Rentis Fish Market, reported high fish prices on Wednesday morning, August 5, during an appearance on the Mega television show Koinonia Ora MEGA. Citizens have expressed dissatisfaction as they try to cope with the rising cost of fish across local markets.
Matrakoukas said the current period is not among the best fishing seasons because only specific fishing vessels are operating. Bottom trawlers that supply the main volume of Greek fish are not working, though seasonal pelagic fish including anchovies, sardines, chub mackerel, and bogue remain available.
Factors driving market prices
Anchovy prices range from 7 euros to 10 euros per kilo depending on size and origin. Matrakoukas said fish coming from further locations like Kavala or Thessaloniki are cheaper, while fresh morning catches from Chalkida cost one to two euros more per kilo.
The same pricing rule applies to sardines, with fresh morning catches from Chalkida ranging from 7 euros to 10 euros per kilo based on size. Matrakoukas noted that markets are not experiencing the sardine shortage seen last year when prices reached 12 euros per kilo, adding that weather conditions dictate whether larger catches arrive to lower prices.
Costs for economical and farmed fish
Bogue and chub mackerel remain the most economical options at around 6 euros to 7 euros per kilo. Farmed fish prices remain stable near 10 euros per kilo, with night catches of half kilo sea bream and sea bass selling for around 10 euros per kilo.
First quality cod was the most expensive option available during the broadcast, reaching 30 euros per kilo. Economical fish varieties generally range between 7 euros and 10 euros per kilo as consumers navigate high prices.
