Marketed coastal and artisanal fishing products in Morocco experienced a significant decline in value during the first half of 2024, dropping by 4% to 4.8 billion dirhams (MMDH), according to the National Fisheries Office (ONP). In terms of weight, these products totaled 469,715 tonnes (T), marking a 10% decrease compared to the same period in 2023.
The ONP report highlights a notable drop in landings for specific species. Shellfish landings decreased by 82%, reaching a mere 24 T. Similarly, algae, crustaceans, and pelagic fish landings declined by 39% to 5,914 T, by 25% to 3,863 T, and by 12% to 378,849 T respectively. In contrast, landings of white fish and cephalopods showed significant increases, recording a 6% rise to 48,925 T and a 5% rise to 32,141 T respectively.
Geographically, Mediterranean ports landed a total of 7,222 T of coastal and artisanal fishing products by the end of June, marking a 20% decline compared to 2023. The value generated by these ports reached 340.28 million dirhams. Atlantic ports experienced a 10% decrease in tonnage, landing 462,493 T, along with a 4% decrease in value, reaching 4.46 billion dirhams.
Morocco’s Coastal & Artisanal Fishing Industry Experiences Decline in First Half of 2024
The Moroccan coastal and artisanal fishing industry experienced a decline in value during the first six months of 2024, according to the National Fisheries Office (ONP). The value of marketed coastal and artisanal fishing products dropped by 4%, reaching 4.8 billion dirhams (MMDH), while the weight of these products reached 469,715 tonnes (T), representing a decrease of 10% compared to the same period of the previous year (June 2023).
Landings See Significant Changes in Key Species
The ONP report highlights a significant drop in landings for several key species. Notably:
- Shellfish landings plummeted by 82%, reaching only 24 T.
- There was a 39% decline in landings of algae, crustaceans, and pelagic fish, totaling 5,914 T, 3,863 T, and 378,849 T respectively.
However, some positive trends were observed. Landings of white fish and cephalopods experienced a notable increase:
- White fish landings rose by 6%, reaching 48,925 T.
- Cephalopod landings increased by 5%, totaling 32,141 T.
Regional Breakdown: A Closer Look
The report also provides a regional breakdown of the performance of Morocco’s coastal and artisanal fishing industry.
Mediterranean Ports
Mediterranean ports experienced a substantial loss in landings, registering a 20% decline compared to the same period in 2023, reaching 7,222 T. The value generated by these ports amounted to 340.28 million dirhams.
Atlantic Ports
Atlantic ports also saw a decrease, with tonnage falling by 10% to 462,493 T. The value of products from these ports also dropped by 4%, reaching 4.46 billion dirhams.
Factors Contributing to the Decline
Several factors might contribute to the decline in Morocco’s coastal and artisanal fishing industry. These include:
- Climate change: Rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification can impact fish populations and distribution, potentially leading to declines in landings.
- Overfishing: Unsustainable fishing practices can deplete fish stocks, leading to lower catches and reduced profitability.
- Pollution: Runoff from agriculture, industry, and wastewater treatment plants can degrade water quality, harming fish populations.
- Economic factors: Fluctuations in fuel prices, global demand, and market prices for fish can impact the profitability of the fishing industry.
Mitigating the Decline: A Need for Action
Addressing the decline in Morocco’s coastal and artisanal fishing industry requires a multi-faceted approach that includes:
- Sustainable fishing practices: Implementing size limits, quotas, and fishing gear restrictions to ensure the long-term health of fish populations.
- Marine conservation efforts: Protecting marine habitats, such as coral reefs and seagrass beds, that are essential for fish reproduction and survival.
- Pollution control: Reducing industrial and agricultural runoff and improving wastewater treatment facilities to protect water quality.
- Government support: Providing financial assistance, technical guidance, and market access to support fishers and the fishing industry.
Table: Summary of Landings by Species
| Species | Landings (T) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Shellfish | 24 | -82% |
| Algae, Crustaceans, Pelagic Fish | 5,914 | -39% |
| White Fish | 48,925 | +6% |
| Cephalopods | 32,141 | +5% |
The future of Morocco’s coastal and artisanal fishing industry depends on a combination of sustainable practices, government policies, and community engagement. By taking a proactive approach, the industry can mitigate the challenges it faces and ensure its long-term sustainability.