In a groundbreaking move for Africa’s fishing industry, Morocco and the Ministerial Conference on Fisheries Cooperation between African States Bordering the Atlantic Ocean (COMHAFAT) are set to align fishing regulations across the continent.
The Moroccan Confederation of Industrial Pelagic Fishing Shipowners (COMAIP) will sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in February 2025, formalizing a partnership aimed at improving sustainability, knowledge exchange, and regulatory best practices.
A Strategic Partnership for Sustainable Fisheries
This landmark agreement coincides with the 7th Halieutis Exhibition in Agadir (February 6-9, 2025), a premier event focused on research, innovation, and the future of fisheries. The collaboration is expected to address three critical challenges:
✅ Enhancing Regulations and Best Practices – Establishing a harmonized regulatory framework to promote sustainable fishing across Africa.
✅ Facilitating Knowledge Exchange – Encouraging African nations to share expertise, technologies, and research to combat overfishing and illegal practices.
✅ Developing Tailored Solutions for the Continent – Creating region-specific strategies to ensure the long-term health of fish stocks and economic resilience.
Morocco’s Leadership in African Fisheries
Morocco has long been at the forefront of sustainable fishing initiatives. The country has forged multiple partnerships to support the scientific assessment of fish stocks in nations like Benin, Liberia, and Côte d’Ivoire, assisting them in crafting effective conservation strategies.
As a leading fish producer in Africa, Morocco continues to set the pace in coastal and artisanal fishing growth.
📈 In 2023, the country’s fishing landings rose by 9%, with pelagic fish—a major contributor to Morocco’s seafood exports—surging by 13% compared to the previous year.
📦 In 2022, Morocco recorded $2.7 billion in seafood exports, marking its highest-ever revenue from the sector.
Tackling Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing
Illegal fishing remains one of the biggest threats to Africa’s marine ecosystems and economies. A 2022 report by the Financial Transparency Coalition revealed that African nations lose up to $11.5 billion annually due to illicit financial flows linked to IUU fishing.
With more than 12 million people in Africa depending on fishing for their livelihoods, urgent action is needed to protect both fish stocks and coastal economies.
Through COMHAFAT, a 22-member coalition of African coastal states, this new partnership will provide a unified front against illegal fishing by implementing improved monitoring, stronger policies, and regional cooperation.
A Future of Sustainable and Profitable Fishing in Africa
With seafood and freshwater fish accounting for 22% of Africa’s animal protein supply, the need for sustainable management has never been greater.
By standardizing fishing practices, investing in research, and strengthening governance, Morocco and COMHAFAT are laying the foundation for a thriving and resilient fishing industry—one that protects marine resources while supporting economic growth.
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