Work Bank report says Morocco can position itself as a regional leader in aquaculture

A new World Bank report shed light on how Morocco is turning aquaculture into a new engine for growth, innovation, and jobs, putting the country on its way to becoming a regional leader while protecting marine ecosystems.

Titled “Morocco’s Blue Future: How Aquaculture Can Power Growth and Jobs,” the report emphasized that Morocco’s blue economy is no longer just a vision but a future taking shape as the ocean becomes a source of prosperity and resilience for generations to come.

Globally, marine and coastal aquaculture produced 71 million tons in 2022, and Morocco’s ambitions, though modest in comparison, position it to tap into this growing market, it said.

The report noted that current production of 3,600 tons is set to expand through 322 licensed farms targeting over 124,000 tons annually.

It emphasized that Morocco is steadily moving toward its goal of 300,000 tons of annual production and 30,000 jobs within the next decade, while developing a diverse range of species, from fish and shrimp to seaweed and shellfish.

Rising domestic seafood consumption and growing investment, expected to exceed $1 billion this year, position aquaculture as a key driver for reducing seafood imports and stabilizing domestic supply, the report added.

The World Bank also highlighted that Morocco has identified the most suitable zones for aquaculture projects, built a modern regulatory framework, and strengthened trade links, improving access to global seafood markets.

Ahmadou Moustapha Ndiaye, World Bank Division Director for Maghreb and Malta, said the Bank stands ready to support Morocco and its National Agency for the Development of Aquaculture in advancing the sector, streamlining regulations, reducing investment risks, and boosting private sector participation.

He added that the Bank is also backing Morocco’s climate-resilient Blue Economy with a $350 million program and a $5 million PROBLUE grant, supporting coastal restoration, sustainable marine management, and community protection against flooding and erosion.