The “Affordable Fish” initiative in Morocco sold 2,150 tons of seafood across 40 cities, aiming to provide affordable prices in response to public concern over fish prices. Mobile fish caravans are reaching remote areas, and the initiative has seen strong customer turnout with daily visits averaging 400. Safety checks are conducted by ONSSA, and plans for improved logistics are underway to sustain supply during Ramadan.
The “Affordable Fish” initiative in Morocco has achieved notable success since its inception. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, 2,150 tons of frozen fish have been sold across more than 40 cities, including major urban centers such as Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech. Launched on February 22, this program aims to address the rising demand for affordable seafood, particularly against the backdrop of public discontent regarding soaring fish prices.
Initially, the initiative planned to distribute over 4,000 tons of seafood, targeting equitable access for all citizens. In addition to urban sales points, mobile fish caravans are also being deployed to reach remote regions, ensuring access to seafood, especially during the holy month of Ramadan. Daily visits at sales sites have averaged nearly 400 people, evidencing strong public interest and trust in the quality and pricing of the available frozen fish.
The fish undergo rigorous safety inspections by the National Office for Food Safety (ONSSA), reinforcing consumer confidence. Looking ahead, the Ministry plans to enhance distribution efficiency with improved logistics and coordination among stakeholders in the fishing industry, aiming to ensure a consistent supply throughout Ramadan.
The initiative has arisen amidst a contentious dialogue regarding fish pricing, sparked by a young entrepreneur in Marrakech selling sardines for MAD 5 ($0.50) per kilo. This price significantly undercuts the market average of MAD 25 ($2.50). He and other fishermen have pointed to the role of intermediaries, referred to as “Chnaqa,” who are accused of unjustly inflating prices, further complicating the seafood market dynamics.
In summary, Morocco’s “Affordable Fish” initiative has positively impacted seafood accessibility, allowing for the sale of 2,150 tons of frozen fish across numerous cities. Enhanced public trust in quality and pricing, alongside effective distribution efforts, sets a promising path for maintaining seafood availability during Ramadan. Addressing pricing discrepancies within the fish market remains essential, especially in light of the ongoing debate regarding middlemen inflating costs. Overall, the initiative underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring affordable seafood for all citizens.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
