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Morocco’s coastal fishing industry faces mixed results through July 2025
Morocco’s coastal and traditional fishing sector endured a challenging start to 2025, with production declining overall but showing pockets of growth in certain categories. Data from the National Office of Maritime Fishing reveals significant regional and species-based variations in performance.
The total value of marketed coastal and traditional fishing products reached MAD 6.14 billion ($682.5 million) by the end of July, representing a 3% drop compared to the same period in 2024. The decline in volume was even sharper, with total catch weight falling 16% to 523,765 tons.
Species performance highlights
Shellfish stood out as the strongest performer, with values surging 309% year-over-year and volumes increasing 293% to 117 tons. Algae and white fish also posted gains, with values rising 24% and 12%, respectively. Algae volumes grew 16% to 6,880 tons, while white fish catches increased 13% to 63,064 tons.
However, these gains were overshadowed by declines in other key categories. Pelagic fish, Morocco’s largest catch category by volume, saw values drop 10% and volumes fall 20% to 412,542 tons. Mollusk catches decreased 16% to 36,986 tons, and crustacean volumes dropped 8% to 4,177 tons, with corresponding value declines of 3% and 2%.
Regional disparities in port performance
Performance varied significantly between Morocco’s Mediterranean and Atlantic fishing ports.
Mediterranean ports showed resilience, with total landings rising 1% to 9,624 tons and catch values increasing 2% to MAD 463.2 million ($51.48 million).
In contrast, Atlantic ports, which handle the majority of Morocco’s fishing production, faced a more difficult period. Landings dropped 17% to 514,141 tons, while values declined 3% to MAD 5.68 billion ($631.38 million).
Future outlook
The mixed results highlight the challenges facing Morocco’s fishing industry, as traditional high-volume categories like pelagic fish come under pressure. Meanwhile, niche products such as shellfish are experiencing rapid growth.
The performance gap between Mediterranean and Atlantic ports suggests that regional factors, including environmental conditions and resource availability, may be influencing catch trends and market dynamics.
