Morocco is accelerating the digital transformation of its fisheries sector as authorities roll out technology-driven controls across the entire value chain, from first-sale markets to offshore fishing zones.
Government officials told Parliament this week that 68 of the country’s 76 fish markets are now operating through digital systems, a move aimed at improving transparency and strengthening oversight of commercial transactions. Speaking during an oral question session at the House of Representatives on January 5, Secretary of State for Maritime Fisheries Zakia Driouich said the digitalization of first-sale markets allows the state to collect more reliable data while reducing opacity in fish trading.
The system enables real-time registration of sales, creating structured datasets that enhance audit capabilities and support better governance across the sector. Authorities see these tools as key to improving business practices and reinforcing regulatory compliance in one of the country’s most strategic industries.
Digital controls are also being extended offshore. All vessels operating in Moroccan waters are now monitored via satellite, while radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology is used to trace authorized boats. The measures are designed to strengthen enforcement and curb illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
Beyond monitoring and compliance, the government is deploying digital tools across scientific research, fisheries management, production processes, and commercialization. Officials say the approach will improve data-driven planning and support the sustainable management of marine resources.
These reforms build on Morocco’s long-term modernization agenda under the Halieutis strategy launched in 2009, which began replacing paper-based procedures with electronic processing, particularly for export documentation. With the expansion of digital systems across markets and maritime surveillance, Morocco is positioning its fisheries value chain to become more traceable, better regulated, and increasingly driven by data.
