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Morocco’s fish paradox: soaring exports, scarce access for locals
Despite Morocco’s extensive 3,500-kilometer coastline and abundant fishing resources, a recent survey conducted by L’Economiste and Sunergia reveals that only 38% of Moroccans consume fish once per week. Meanwhile, the majority struggle with rising prices and limited availability, painting a stark contrast with the country’s thriving fish export market.
The survey highlights that 30% of Moroccans eat fish multiple times per week, while 19% consume it twice a month. On the other hand, 4% eat fish less than once a month, and another 4% do not consume fish at all.
Divided opinions on fish availability
Public perceptions about fish availability in Morocco remain mixed. While 34% of respondents believe fish is more accessible compared to previous years, 35% feel availability has declined. Women were more likely to report improved availability, with 38% holding this view. However, age appears to influence perceptions: 43% of Moroccans aged 55-64 and 39% of those aged 18-24 report worsening access. Regionally, northern and eastern Morocco report better availability, with 42% of respondents noting improvements.
Rising prices and the struggle for local access
Moroccans are facing steep fish prices, even for sardines, traditionally considered an affordable staple. Sardines are now priced as high as MAD 20 ($2) per kilogram in retail markets, compared to just MAD 3 per kilogram at wholesale levels. This price gap is exacerbated by intermediaries, known locally as "Chnnaqa," who control distribution. These middlemen inflate prices by creating artificial supply shortages, further straining local consumers.
The discrepancy is particularly striking when compared to Morocco’s strong fish export industry. In 2023, the fishing sector recorded exports worth MAD 31 billion ($3.1 billion) with a total harvest of 847,000 tons. European trade data underscores this growth, with Morocco supplying 93% of the EU’s sardine imports from non-EU countries. Spanish imports alone surged 40% between 2018 and 2022, increasing from 91.6 million kilograms to 130.3 million kilograms.
Official explanations under scrutiny
During a January parliamentary session, Agriculture Minister Ahmed Bouari faced sharp criticism over the rising prices and scarcity of fish. The minister attributed the issues to drought conditions, a claim that has been widely challenged. Critics argue that export data and favorable harvest numbers contradict the drought explanation.
One parliament member sharply rebuked the minister, stating, “You’ve buried the poorest Moroccans with these prices. Have some respect for their intelligence. Shame on you!” The frustration comes amid broader inflation concerns, with red meat prices exceeding MAD 120 (12)perkilogramandpoultryrangingfromMAD25to30(12) per kilogram and poultry ranging from MAD 25 to 30 (12)perkilogramandpoultryrangingfromMAD25to30(2.50 to $3).
A coastline of contradictions
While Morocco dominates global sardine exports and benefits from vast maritime resources, many Moroccans are unable to afford or access fish regularly. The disparity raises pressing questions about resource management, export priorities, and the role of intermediaries in the domestic market. For now, the paradox of Morocco’s fish industry continues to weigh heavily on the nation’s poorest citizens.
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