Rabat – Morocco has expanded the digital transformation of its fisheries sector, with 68 out of the country’s 76 national fish markets now operating through digital systems, according to statements made in parliament this week.
The move is part of broader efforts to improve transparency, traceability, and price regulation across the seafood supply chain.
Speaking during an oral question session at the House of Representatives, Zakia Driouich, the Secretary of State for Maritime Fisheries, said the rollout of digital tools at first-sale fish markets is helping buyers access clearer information while strengthening oversight of commercial transactions.
The system allows authorities to track sales more effectively and reduces opacity at a critical point in the distribution process.
The digital shift is not limited to market operations. Monitoring has also been extended to fishing zones, where all vessels operating in Moroccan waters are now tracked via satellite.
In parallel, radio frequency identification technology is being used to trace boats that are legally authorized to fish, a measure aimed at reinforcing controls and combating illegal fishing activities.
According to the Secretary of State, digital tools are also being applied to scientific research, fisheries management plans, production methods, and the commercialization of seafood products.
These initiatives form part of a longer-term transition that began with the launch of the Halieutis strategy in 2009, which gradually introduced digital processes, particularly in the export segment, by replacing paper-based documentation with electronic data processing.
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During the same session, the issue of rising fish prices on domestic markets was also addressed.
Driouich said prices continue to be driven by supply and demand dynamics and remain relatively reasonable when taking into account several contributing factors.
These include weather conditions, the cost of fishing trips, cold chain logistics, and the margins applied by intermediaries and retailers.
She noted that the government, working alongside relevant authorities, is maintaining efforts to ensure regular market supply, regulate prices, and counter illegal practices and speculative behavior.
In this context, the upcoming ban on the export of frozen sardines starting February 1 is expected to support domestic availability and help keep prices at acceptable levels.
The government is planning additional measures ahead of the month of Ramadan, with targeted initiatives to guarantee the supply of frozen fish to local markets.
Looking ahead, Driouich said the government is preparing a strategy centered on fisheries’ sustainability, focusing on preserving marine resources, strengthening control mechanisms, upgrading market infrastructure, and improving local fish markets across the country.
