The Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries announced on january 28, 2015 holding the international exhibition Halieutis. By the same occasion, he took the opportunity to review the situation of the fisheries sector in Morocco.

« Fish exports exceeded 15.16 billion dirhams in 2014, which is a first of its kind. The added value of this sector increased by 33% since 2009, » according to Mr Aziz Akhannouch Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries at a press conference on Wednesday 28 January in Casablanca, dedicated to the presentation of the 3rd edition of the international exhibition Halieutis which is held every two years.

This event, which « aims at being a meeting place for professionals in the marine fisheries sector» will take place from 18 to 22 February in Agadir under the theme "The sea, Future of Man, » according to the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries. This event is aiming primarily « at enhancing the Moroccan expertise in the field of marine fisheries and promote exchanges and cooperation between Moroccan and foreign operators » .The show will open its doors to the public visitors during the last two days," said the Minister.

More than 60,000 visitors, 300 exhibitors from 37 countries are expected at this edition, with the guest of honor the Ivory Coast. The last two editions respectively had experienced inflows of 40 000 and 45 000 visitors.

1.3 million tonnes of seafood in 2014

In the context of the presentation of the Show, the Minister also highlighted the role that Morocco plays in the marine fisheries sector. The kingdom of Morocco is the first in Africa and 25th worldwide manufacturer in the field of marine fisheries, with annual production exceeding 1 million tonnes. «In 2014, Morocco has produced 1.3 million tonnes of seafood including the exportation of about 500 000 tonnes» according to Mr Aziz Akhannouch.
The production is intended for 80% to supply the seafood processing industry and 20% to supply the local market.

He also spoke of the importance of this sector to the Moroccan economy. The sea fishing sector contributed by 2.3% to the national GDP on average over the last 10 years. In terms of employment, the sector generated 170,000 direct jobs and 500,000 indirect ones.

Positive results for the control of fishing operations
The Minister also welcomed the positive outcome of the generalization of management plans for fisheries management. These measures are to monitor fishing operations and the authorized amounts, monitor fishing areas and fix the periods of biological rest.

«We came to control 85% of fisheries resources. We will come to control 95% of the resources by the end of 2015, far exceeding the 90% forecast for 2020 » according to the minister declaration.