French Fishermen Block Oil Depots Over Rising Fuel Costs

Fishermen across southern France have launched a series of protests and blockades to oppose rising fuel prices and increasing administrative restrictions. On September 15 and 16, demonstrators blocked oil depots in Fos-sur-Mer and Frontignan. In Fos-sur-Mer, clashes erupted between protesters and police, resulting in the use of tear gas to clear the roads.

The French Republic has remained adamant that it will not implement fuel tax cuts despite the risk of bankruptcy facing the fishing industry. The protests have coincided with record-high petrol prices and fuel shortages, with the government reporting that approximately 9% of service stations are currently facing shortages. TotalEnergies stations have been particularly affected as price caps have attracted a surge of customers.

Beyond the oil depots, protests in Sète prevented a Corsica Ferries vessel from departing, following earlier demonstrations in Port-Vendres on September 14. The fuel crisis is further exacerbated by international tensions and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Fishermen are now demanding a meeting with Minister-Delegate for the Sea and Fisheries Catherine Chabaud to address their grievances.