Morocco Greenlights 300 Marine Aquaculture Farms as Sector Enters New Era

Morocco’s aquaculture sector is gathering remarkable momentum as the government confirms authorization for 300 marine farms across the country. Government spokesperson Mustapha Baitas announced the milestone after the weekly Council meeting, highlighting a sector that is rapidly evolving into one of the nation’s most promising blue-economy frontiers.

Source: northafricapost

The Council has now approved draft decree No. 2.24.830, introduced by the Secretary of State for Maritime Fisheries, which lays out the rules governing marine aquaculture operations. The new framework sets clear standards for farming marine species and details the procedures required to carry out activities within aquaculture facilities—key steps toward ensuring both sustainability and efficiency.

Baitas described the industry’s current phase as one of “profound transformation,” driven by government measures that have boosted production, encouraged investment and opened new avenues for job creation. He noted that progress is especially visible in the rise of integrated units connected to the farms. These hubs handle every stage of the value chain, from cultivation to packaging and specialized services, strengthening Morocco’s ability to compete in regional and global markets.

More than 180 aquaculture projects are already underway nationwide, with ambitions to surpass 70,000 tons of production and create over 2,400 direct jobs—an extraordinary surge when compared to previous years, when output struggled to reach 50 tons annually. The newly adopted decree signals a fresh commitment to scaling these gains even further.

Momentum from international partners adds another layer of confidence. A recent World Bank assessment highlights Morocco’s swift progress, citing the expansion of seaweed cultivation, shrimp farming and other emerging ventures as proof that the country’s blue-economy vision is becoming tangible reality rather than distant aspiration.

With abundant coastlines and rich marine ecosystems, Morocco is positioning aquaculture as a cornerstone of future economic growth. Projections suggest the sector could deliver up to 300,000 tons of output and create as many as 30,000 jobs over the next decade—marking a decisive shift toward sustainable industry, steady employment and a resilient economy built around the sea.