Morocco: The sardine crisis in Laayoune prompts professionals to demand access to the Boujdour trap

The article highlights the ongoing crisis in the sardine production in the Laayoune region's coasts, which is causing significant social and economic challenges for the fishing sector. Fishing boats have been unable to catch sufficient quantities, leading to concerns about covering trip costs and marking the Eid al-Adha. A group of professional organizations has reached out to the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Development, proposing a temporary solution by requesting these boats to be permitted to enter the Boujdour trap. This crisis is part of a larger issue where pelagic fish stocks have seen a dramatic decrease, with boats spending extended periods at sea without catching sufficient quantities. This situation is attributed to the depletion of pelagic fish stocks, exacerbated by past overfishing. The National Institute for Research in Marine Fisheries has confirmed a 36% decline in pelagic fish stock, calling for urgent interventions and strict measures to protect and allow for the natural reproduction of fish.