Coastal Fishing in Laâyoune: Landings Increase by 8% in the First Quarter
Positive Dynamics at the Port of Laâyoune: A Vital Sector for Morocco’s Economy
The port of Laâyoune is witnessing a positive trend in the coastal and artisanal fishing sector. According to data from the National Fisheries Office (ONP), landings have increased by 8% in both volume and value during the first four months of the year, reaching 35,073 tons with a total value of 639.01 million dirhams, compared to 32,371 tons and 591.87 million dirhams the previous year.
However, this overall growth masks disparities among different species. Pelagic fish catches experienced a significant surge of 48%, amounting to 22,921 tons and generating 136.42 million dirhams. This performance is in stark contrast to that of white fish, whose landings declined by 41%, reaching 7,327 tons with a 21% drop in value.
Cephalopods are also demonstrating a positive trend, with an 8% increase in volume, totaling 4,813 tons, and a 13% rise in value, amounting to 366.07 million dirhams. Conversely, crustaceans remain marginal, despite a 30% increase in volume, with only 12 tons being landed.
On a national scale, landings in the coastal and artisanal fishing sector reached 195,828 tons by the end of April, reflecting a 5% decline in volume compared to the previous year. Nevertheless, their value increased by 5%, surpassing 3.85 billion dirhams, indicating an overall improvement in the valuation of marine products.
These figures underscore the strategic importance of the fishing sector in Morocco’s economy, especially in the southern regions, where fishing serves as a major driver of economic activity and employment.
