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Ensuring Affordable Seafood for Ramadan: Morocco Forms Central Committee

Thursday 04 January 2024 - 08:04

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As the sacred month of Ramadan approaches, set to commence in March, Morocco is taking proactive measures to ensure the availability and affordability of seafood for consumers.

This week, Minister of Agriculture Mohamed Sadiki convened with professionals from the fishing industry in Rabat to address the provision of quality, affordable seafood across the country throughout Ramadan.

A pivotal outcome of the meeting was the establishment of a central monitoring committee. This committee will play a crucial role in overseeing the seafood market in the lead-up to and during the fasting month.

Minister Sadiki emphasized, "The committee's critical task will involve daily price checks along the entire supply chain, with a particular focus on wholesale and retail outlets, ensuring accessibility for shoppers."

In addition to monitoring prices, the committee will collaborate with fishing companies to ensure that cities are adequately stocked with fresh and frozen fish. Arabi Mahidi, President of the Union of Fisheries Chambers and an attendee of the meeting, referred to a successful Ramadan initiative in 2019. This initiative facilitated the nationwide purchase of high-quality frozen fish at reasonable prices, showcasing the potential positive impact of such coordinated efforts.

The observance of Ramadan varies by country, with the beginning and end determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, resulting in fasting periods of 29 or 30 days. During this sacred month, Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn to sunset. By establishing a seafood price monitoring committee well in advance of Ramadan, Morocco aims to promote fair costs and healthy competition within the fishing industry, acknowledging the significance of this religious observance for its Muslim-majority population.