The port of Tarfaya has recorded an unprecedented surge in coastal and small-scale fishing landings during the first half of 2025. According to figures released by the National Fisheries Office, 20,546 tons of seafood passed through the port between January and June—nearly triple the 7,884 tons recorded over the same period last year. This 161% spike in volume was matched by a sharp rise in value, with revenues exceeding 224.35 million dirhams, compared to 122.59 million dirhams a year ago.
This dramatic growth is largely driven by pelagic fish, which saw a near threefold increase in volume. By the end of June, landings reached 17,185 tons, generating 77.17 million dirhams in revenue. In comparison, the first half of 2024 saw just 5,949 tons brought in, worth 32.73 million dirhams.
White fish also followed this upward trend. The volume doubled year-over-year, reaching 1,889 tons, while earnings jumped to 34.85 million dirhams. Last year, landings totaled 926 tons, generating 19.56 million dirhams.
Cephalopods, too, posted strong gains. Their volume climbed 49% to 1,415 tons, with a corresponding 61% rise in value, reaching 111.24 million dirhams. Crustaceans were the only group to see a slight dip. Just 57 tons were landed, down marginally from 58 tons last year. However, revenue held steady at around 1.08 million dirhams.
On a national scale, however, the picture is less optimistic. Morocco’s total fish landings during the same six-month period dropped 17% to 391,353 tons. Despite the decline in volume, the overall revenue remained stable at roughly 4.81 billion dirhams.
