The Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Fisheries, Yacine Oualid, has emphasized the urgent need to move beyond identifying problems in the fisheries sector and to implement concrete, on-the-ground solutions. The goal is to significantly improve both marine fishing and aquaculture practices.
During a coordination and working meeting dedicated to evaluating the current state and future prospects of the sector, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting fishermen and economic operators. This support aims to strengthen the sector’s role in achieving national food security and diversifying income sources.
The meeting, attended by senior officials, representatives of professional bodies, and various stakeholders, served as a strategic platform for fostering continuous dialogue and consultation with industry professionals. A frank and open discussion addressed key structural challenges facing fishermen and investors, particularly concerning working conditions, high production costs, financing mechanisms, and the modernization of fishing fleets.
Improving distribution and marketing chains to ensure fair prices and market stability was also a central theme.
Minister Oualid stressed the importance of adopting practical programs focused on streamlining administrative procedures, incentivizing productive investment, and enhancing vocational training and qualification. He also highlighted the need to support scientific research and innovation in aquaculture. These measures are crucial for enhancing the sector’s competitiveness and its ability to adapt to current economic changes and increasing pressure on traditional resources.
The Minister’s interventions underscored the importance of building a comprehensive system that restores the prestige of marine fishing and aquaculture by improving the sector’s image, enhancing its attractiveness to young people, and fostering trust between professionals and public institutions.
This approach aims to establish a new dynamic based on an effective partnership between the state and field actors. This collaboration will promote sustainable development through the rational exploitation of marine resources, the protection of the coastal environment, and the long-term sustainability of resources. The ultimate aim is to make the fisheries sector a cornerstone of the national strategy for economic development and food security, as well as a driver for supporting national production and creating jobs.
