Morocco is positioning aquaculture as a key driver of sustainable growth, innovation, and job creation, with an ambitious target of producing 300,000 tons of aquaculture products and generating 30,000 jobs within the next decade. The country’s extensive coastline, diverse marine ecosystems, and growing domestic and global demand for sustainable seafood have created ideal conditions for aquaculture expansion. Currently producing about 3,600 tons of seafood annually, Morocco’s aquaculture sector is still in its early stages but holds immense potential for scaling up through strategic investment and reform.
Production already spans various species, including fish, clams, mussels, oysters, seaweed, and shrimp. The government has established a modern regulatory framework, identified suitable aquaculture zones, and fostered stronger trade links to integrate with global seafood markets. More than 300 licensed farms are now operating, collectively targeting an annual output of over 124,000 tons. Rising seafood consumption and a growing awareness of its health benefits are also driving the domestic market, with expected investment opportunities exceeding USD 1 billion this year.
The World Bank Group is playing a central role in advancing Morocco’s aquaculture goals. Through a $350 million Program for Results and a $5 million grant from the PROBLUE Multi-Donor Trust Fund, the Bank is supporting Morocco’s efforts to build a climate-resilient Blue Economy. These initiatives have already delivered progress in managing marine and coastal resources, restoring coastal forests, and improving flood and erosion protection for local communities. In parallel, the North Africa Blue Economy Program Phase II is strengthening the National Agency for the Development of Aquaculture’s (ANDA) capacity through technical assistance, training, and planning for sustainable aquaculture expansion.
Innovative ventures like VitaminSea Morocco and SETEXAM are demonstrating the sector’s potential. VitaminSea produces around 60 tons of shrimp annually for local consumption and plans to scale production fivefold while localizing larvae production. SETEXAM, a long-established seaweed company, is exploring digital marketing and e-commerce to expand its reach. Seaweed farming, in particular, has emerged as a cornerstone of Morocco’s blue bioeconomy, offering applications in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, fertilizers, and renewable energy.
Despite its promise, Morocco’s aquaculture sector faces challenges related to infrastructure, including hatcheries, feed mills, cold storage, and processing facilities. However, ongoing reforms, private sector engagement, and international partnerships are addressing these gaps. With sustained investment and innovation, Morocco is poised to become a regional leader in sustainable aquaculture—creating jobs, boosting exports, and protecting marine ecosystems. The nation’s Blue Economy is rapidly evolving into a tangible reality, where ocean resources fuel inclusive growth and climate resilience for generations to come.
