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Rabat – Morocco’s State Secretariat for Maritime Fisheries has adopted two new ministerial decisions introducing spatial divisions for coastal trawlers and longline fishing fleets.
The State Secretariat said the first decision, No. PC CHAL-01/26, issued on February 3, sets out a new spatial division for the coastal trawler fleet. Under the measure, Moroccan marine waters will be divided into five management units. Each unit will have clearly defined geographic boundaries and designated landing ports.
Starting from the 2026 fishing season, each coastal trawler will be required to operate within only one management unit. Vessels must also unload their catches exclusively at ports located within the unit they select. The chosen unit and its corresponding landing ports will be specified in the vessel’s fishing license.
At the same time, the State Secretariat adopted Decision No. PC PAL-01/26, issued on January 26, which amends Article 2 of Decision No. PC PAL-01/25 concerning the spatial division of longline fishing fleets. The amendment aims to adjust the three fishing zones and their landing ports to better align fishing activity with the capacity of the concerned ports.
According to the statement, these spatial division decisions were adopted following a process of consultation and coordination with professionals in the maritime fishing sector.
The main objective of the new system is to establish a balanced and coherent spatial organization that supports the sustainable use of marine resources, while also ensuring the economic viability of fishing activities.
The State Secretariat noted that these measures represent a first phase in a gradual process to reorganize fisheries management and development plans. Additional complementary measures are expected to be adopted at a later stage.
MWN with MAP
