French fishermen block Cannes port over rising fuel prices

French fishermen blocked the Vieux-Port in Cannes as protests over rising fuel prices and deteriorating conditions in the fishing industry continued across southern France.

Around a dozen fishing boats were used to block access to the port, disrupting ferry services to the Lérins Islands. The protesters are demanding a fixed fuel price and additional government support.

The protest began at around 7 a.m. on September 21, with about 20 fishermen taking part. The boats were tied together across the port entrances, with banners displayed as part of what organizers described as a peaceful demonstration.

Fishermen say rapidly rising fuel costs are making their operations increasingly difficult to sustain. They are calling for fuel prices to be capped rather than relying on a proposed subsidy of 35 cents per litre.

The protesters are also raising concerns over delays in receiving government support, fishing quotas and administrative requirements.

Minister Delegate for the Sea and Fisheries Catherine Chabaud was in Sète on September 21 for talks with industry representatives, while fishermen in Cannes awaited details of any measures to be announced.

The protesters warned that further action could follow if the government’s proposals fail to meet their expectations.

Cannes Mayor David Lisnard visited the port during the morning and met with the fishermen, expressing his support for the local fishing industry.

The Cannes blockade follows several other protests by fishermen in southern France over the past week, including a blockade in Nice and demonstrations at an oil depot in Frontignan.

By Vafa Guliyeva