Spanish fishing industry representatives have not given up on regaining access to Moroccan sardine stocks. A meeting took place between the Association of Friends of Halieutis, representing fish traders from Agadir and Laayoune, and ANFACO-CYTMA, the Spanish organization representing fish processing and canning companies.
The meeting, held in the context of ongoing negotiations between the European Union and Morocco over fishing rights, focused on the potential resumption of Spanish vessels fishing for sardines in Moroccan waters. The EU-Morocco Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement, which expired in July 2023, has not been renewed, leaving Spanish fishermen without access to these rich fishing grounds.
Spanish industry sources indicate that the meeting was exploratory, aimed at understanding the current regulatory framework and the conditions under which Moroccan authorities might allow foreign fishing. The Association of Friends of Halieutis emphasized the importance of sustainable fishing practices and the need to protect local fishing communities.
No concrete agreement was reached, but both sides expressed interest in continuing dialogue. The Spanish government has been under pressure from its fishing sector to find a solution, while Morocco has prioritized the development of its own fishing industry.
