Morocco’s fisheries output stood at 1.31 million tons in 2018, unchanged from 2017 levels, the national fisheries office (ONP) said. With its 3,500 kilometers of coastlines (500 km on the Mediterranean coast and 3,000 km on the Atlantic), Morocco possesses a strong tradition of maritime fisheries. According to FAO figures, Morocco is already the largest maritime fisheries producer in Africa and at the 25th position worldwide. Fisheries contribute 2.3% to the GDP and the sector creates direct employment for 170,000 fisherfolk and indirect employment to an additional 500,000 people. It is estimated that 3 million people in Morocco depend on fisheries for their livelihoods.

Source: The North Africa Journal January 21, 2019 16:41 UTC