Government measures to ensure the availability of fish and stabilize prices during Ramadan
The government is working to guarantee the availability of fish products and stabilize their prices during Ramadan through a set of regulatory and marketing measures aimed at enhancing supply and limiting speculation, while continuing to support traditional fishing and improve the conditions of those working in the sector.
Zakia Driouech, the Secretary of State to the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, and Water and Forests responsible for fisheries, emphasized during a session of oral questions at the House of Representatives that her office is committed to the government’s efforts to secure the supply of essential food products in national markets, especially during periods of increased demand like Ramadan.
The official outlined that among the key measures taken is the resumption of the small pelagic fishing fleet’s activities between Safi and Dakhla, following the end of the biological rest period from January 1 to February 15, 2026. This is expected to contribute to an increase in the quantities landed and bolster supply in the markets.
In this context, Driouech pointed to the decision to prohibit the export of sardines, both frozen and fresh, starting February 1, with the aim of directing production to the domestic market and keeping prices at reasonable levels. She also announced the launch of the eighth edition of the “Affordable Fish” initiative, which this year will include all regions of the Kingdom, compared to just ten regions last year, expanding the offerings to include frozen sardines and anchovies at suitable prices.
The Secretary of State highlighted that the sector continues to implement a marketing and valorization strategy for marine products, which has led to the establishment of advanced infrastructure for wholesale sales and the creation of fish sorting centers within ports utilizing digitization to enhance transaction transparency. Additionally, the industrial framework has been developed to supply the national market with canned products. Storage and distribution capacities have been strengthened, expanding from 10 units in 2010 to over 80 units nationwide.
To bring marine products closer to consumers, Driouech stated that the 2025–2027 roadmap includes a specific axis for activating local markets in partnership with local communities, resulting in the establishment of 12 markets for secondary sales outside ports, as well as launching a program for eight modern retail markets. In the Dakhla region, one retail market has been completed, and a partnership agreement has been signed to create a second market.
The government official stressed that all these measures aim to limit speculation and monopolistic practices, assertively managing prices while reminding that prices are subject to supply and demand dynamics in accordance with the provisions of the Law on Price Freedom and Competition. She emphasized that the government, through the ministerial joint committee for monitoring and following up on market supplies, is keen on tightening oversight and addressing practices contrary to competitive rules.
On another note, Driouech addressed the state of traditional fishing, affirming its significance in employment and social development as it contributes about 22% of national production value, amounting to 3.42 billion dirhams last year, marking a 66% increase compared to 2020. The revenue generated by active boats has more than tripled, averaging 210,000 dirhams annually, providing over 60,000 direct job opportunities.
Regarding fuel costs, the Secretary of State noted that fuel intended for marine fishing is exempt from duties and taxes, clarifying that prices for gasoline allocated for traditional fishing have recently declined and stabilized after reaching 13.62 dirhams per liter in some ports during 2022 and 2023, currently settling at around 9 dirhams.
