A large new tuna processing factory is being built in Berrechid, near Casablanca, as Morocco works to grow its seafood exports.
The project is led by Tunamax SARL, which teamed up with Gaictech to design and install the full production line. The contract, signed in 2023, is worth nearly €6 million.
Tunamax says the factory includes everything needed to turn frozen tuna into finished cans ready for sale. The line covers thawing, cooking, cleaning, filling, sealing, sterilising, cooling, labelling and packaging. The process runs continuously to help keep quality steady and food safe.
According to Tunamax chief executive Abdellah Bouja, the system was designed as a complete solution, not just a set of machines. He said the aim was to build a fully integrated industrial operation.
The plant can process around 15,000 tonnes of whole tuna per year and produce more than 50 million cans annually, making it one of the country’s largest tuna factories.
The site was chosen partly because of its location close to the Port of Casablanca. This helps speed up deliveries of raw materials and makes exports to Europe and West Africa easier.
Tunamax says the factory will supply both the Moroccan market and overseas customers, including in Europe, where products must meet strict standards.
The company says the project will create direct and indirect jobs, supporting transport firms and packaging suppliers. It will also require staff trained to operate highly automated systems.
Morocco has been investing in modernising its seafood industry under national plans aimed at increasing the value of exports rather than selling mainly raw fish.
Morocco is expanding its role in the global tuna market, which is currently led by countries such as Thailand, Spain, Ecuador and China.
Officials and companies say Morocco’s advantage includes its location near Europe, trade agreements with major markets, and newer factories built with modern technology from the start.
The Berrechid plant is now moving into a phase where production is gradually being increased and equipment is being fine-tuned before reaching full capacity.
