In a letter addressed to the Head of Government, the National Federation of Fishing Products Processing and Valorization Industries (FENIP) declared that it had taken note of the decision rendered on October 4, 2024 by the Court of Justice of the European Union , canceling the fishing and agricultural trade agreements between Morocco and the European Union. According to the federation, this is a decision based on unfounded arguments which represents a significant challenge for the fishing sector, a pillar of the national economy and foreign trade.
Despite the repercussions of such a decision, the federation seems optimistic since it says it is convinced that it can be transformed into an opportunity for Moroccan fishing. “We firmly believe that it is possible to convert this constraint into an opportunity for the sector,” specifies the same source.
The federation judges that it is time to diversify the outlets which must be made a priority. In its letter, the corporation suggested strengthening efforts to develop new commercial partnerships with high-potential markets, such as Asia, Latin America, and especially Africa. “The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement constitutes a tremendous opportunity to expand our export scope and strengthen our presence in African countries, particularly with regard to seafood products,” he said. she argued.
The letter also emphasizes the importance of adding value to fishery products by investing in infrastructure and processing techniques that increase the quality and competitiveness of our products on international markets. “The development of products with higher added value, such as processed or packaged products, would make it possible to better meet the specific requirements of foreign consumers and to stand out in high-value niche markets,” continues the federation.
The Federation made other recommendations such as the transition to sustainable and carbon-free fishing and the promotion of Moroccan products internationally.
Finally, FENIP said it was determined to support the government in the implementation of these strategies which will allow the fishing sector to overcome this crisis and prosper in the long term.
