July 21, 2023

 

Morocco launches first marine hatchery to boost aquaculture sector

 

Morocco has launching its first marine hatchery aimed at bolstering the country's aquaculture sector, which aims to produce up to 30 million high-quality fry of sea bream, sea bass, meager, and other species of interest to the national aquaculture farms, Morocco World News reported.

 

The inauguration ceremony, led by Mohamed Sadiki, Morocco's Minister of Agriculture and Maritime Fisheries, took place in the commune of Gueznaya in northern Morocco.

 

Spanning an area of 2.28 hectares, this hatchery will play a crucial role in Morocco's aquaculture industry, with a dedicated investment of MAD 120 million (~US$12.3 million; MAD 1 = US$0.10) to ensure a reliable supply of fry for the value chain.

 

Minister Sadiki emphasised the significance of this hatchery, as it is the first in Morocco to receive financial support from the government, with a MAD 20 million (~US$2 million) investment bonus granted for the acquisition of hatchery equipment.

 

The hatchery's establishment aligns with the "Halieutis" plan, initiated by King Mohammed VI in 2009, which aims to increase production and foster the balanced, qualitative, and sustainable development of Morocco's marine fisheries sector.

 

Minister Sadiki stressed the importance of fry production in supporting the viability of fish farming projects while alleviating pressure on marine resources.

 

The project sets a precedent for similar endeavours in various regions of Morocco, resonating with the strategies of the National Agency for the Development of Aquaculture. The agency is committed to supporting such initiatives as part of Morocco's long-term policy in the aquaculture sector, encouraging investment and capitalizing on the sector's significant evolution.

 

Shavit Dahan, the head of project development at Aquago Company, lauded Morocco's inclination towards qualitative economic endeavours, particularly those with high added value for the marine fishing sector.

 

He commended the country's efforts to encourage investments that not only support the national economy but also contribute to environmental protection and the preservation of natural resources.

 

With the launch of the first marine fish hatchery, Morocco takes a momentous stride towards developing a thriving aquaculture sector.

 

This project not only reflects the country's dedication to economic progress but also emphasizes its commitment to preserving natural resources and reinforcing its position as a global leader in the marine fishing industry.

 

-      Morocco World News