Morocco-Russia Fisheries Agreement: Moscow Targets 100,000 Tonnes in Annual Catches

Yesterday 16:30

Russia is seeking to increase its annual fishing quota in Moroccan Atlantic waters to 100,000 tonnes, a move that could significantly expand the scale of its fishing operations in the region. The proposed target remains subject to scientific assessments and bilateral discussions, with the sustainability of marine resources expected to play a central role in determining future catch limits.

The issue highlights the economic importance of fisheries in relations between Morocco and Russia, as both countries continue to develop cooperation in maritime research, seafood production and the management of fish stocks.

A Potential Increase in Fishing Allocations

Russia's current fishing allocation in Moroccan waters stands at 54,000 tonnes for 2026 under the bilateral fisheries agreement signed in October 2025. The ambition to reach 100,000 tonnes would represent a substantial increase, but it should not be interpreted as an approved quota.

Any adjustment will depend on the findings of scientific research and decisions taken through the joint commission responsible for overseeing the agreement. This mechanism allows both countries to assess available marine resources before determining future fishing allocations.

The Russian fleet primarily targets four small pelagic species in Morocco's Atlantic fishing zone: sardines, mackerel, horse mackerel and anchovies. These species are commercially important and contribute to seafood supply chains, making accurate assessments of their populations essential to the management of fishing activities.

Scientific Research to Guide Future Decisions

To support the assessment process, the Russian research vessel Atlantida began a 45-day scientific mission in Morocco's Atlantic waters on October 26, 2026.

The expedition is scheduled to conduct 145 trawling operations across approximately 80 sampling locations agreed upon with Moroccan authorities. Its findings are expected to improve understanding of fish abundance and the condition of key commercial species.

The mission includes a team of 40 Russian crew members and specialists, including 12 scientists, alongside two Moroccan researchers. In addition to examining fish populations, the team is studying marine environmental conditions that could influence the distribution and availability of resources.

The results will provide a scientific basis for discussions within the joint Moroccan-Russian fisheries commission, which is responsible for reviewing catch levels and considering possible adjustments to the agreement.

Economic Opportunities and Environmental Responsibilities

The prospect of increasing Russian catches presents economic opportunities while raising questions about the long-term management of marine resources. Higher fishing volumes could support commercial activity and seafood processing, but any expansion must take account of the condition of fish stocks and the need to maintain sustainable fishing practices.

For Morocco, scientific monitoring is an important component of fisheries governance, helping inform decisions on the use of national maritime resources. For Russia, the research mission offers an opportunity to strengthen its understanding of fishing conditions in the region and support its ambitions under the bilateral agreement.

The next steps will depend on the findings of the Atlantida expedition and the subsequent assessment by the two countries. Until a decision is reached, the target of 100,000 tonnes remains an objective rather than an officially authorised annual allocation.