Rabat, November 14, 2025 – The Europe Today: Morocco is steadily emerging as a potential regional leader in aquaculture, supported by strong political commitment, expanding investment, and a long-term vision for a sustainable blue economy, according to a recent analysis by the World Bank.
In an article published on its official website, the international financial institution highlighted the country’s rapid progress in developing its aquaculture sector, noting that “from algae to shrimp, Morocco’s blue economy is no longer just a vision — it’s a future taking shape, where the ocean becomes a sustainable source of prosperity and resilience for generations to come.”
Vast Untapped Potential
The World Bank report, titled “Morocco’s Blue Future: Aquaculture for Growth and Employment,” underscored the significant untapped potential of the sector. Current aquaculture production stands at approximately 3,600 tons — a small share of what Morocco is capable of achieving with its extensive coastline and diverse marine ecosystems.
According to the analysis, sustained public and private investment is accelerating the sector’s development. Morocco aims to boost aquaculture production to 300,000 tons and generate around 30,000 jobs within the next decade, responding to growing global demand for sustainable seafood.
Reforms Strengthen the Sector
The report noted that the government has introduced key structural reforms to unlock the sector’s potential. Authorities have mapped out suitable aquaculture zones, modernized the regulatory and licensing framework, and enhanced trade channels to improve access to international seafood markets.
The World Bank stressed that Morocco now hosts 322 licensed aquaculture farms, with a combined targeted production capacity exceeding 124,000 tons annually — a clear indication of strategic planning and a strong commitment to environmentally responsible growth.
World Bank Reaffirms Support
The financial institution expressed readiness to continue supporting Morocco’s efforts to make the blue economy a central pillar of national development.
“The World Bank Group stands ready to support the Kingdom of Morocco and the National Agency for Aquaculture Development to make this sector a national priority,” said Ahmadou Moustapha Ndiaye, the Bank’s director for the Maghreb region.
Ndiaye emphasized the World Bank’s role in helping streamline regulations, reduce investment risks, and mobilize financing, particularly through the International Finance Corporation (IFC), to foster expanded private sector participation.
The World Bank is already assisting Morocco through a $350 million program-for-results initiative aimed at enhancing climate resilience in the blue economy, supplemented by an additional $5 million from the multi-donor PROBLUE trust fund.
The institution said these efforts align with Morocco’s long-term vision to transform its marine resources into a sustainable engine for economic development, job creation, and environmental stewardship.
