Starting a fishmeal and fish oil plant in Morocco is a lucrative business opportunity, especially considering the country’s rich marine resources and strategic access to both Atlantic and Mediterranean fishing zones. To launch this venture successfully, you’ll need to navigate legal regulations, secure funding, source raw materials, and install efficient processing technology. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Why Morocco Is Ideal for Fishmeal & Fish Oil Production

Morocco ranks among the top fish producers in Africa, with over 1.4 million tonnes of fish caught annually. The government actively supports the Blue Economy through initiatives like Halieutis Plan, which promotes sustainable fisheries and seafood industries.

Key advantages:

Strategic coastal location (3,500 km of coastline)
Government support & investment incentives
Growing demand for fishmeal and fish oil in animal feed and aquaculture
Free trade access to the EU, US, and African markets

Steps to Start a Fishmeal & Fish Oil Plant in Morocco

1. Conduct Market Research

Understand the local and global demand for fishmeal and fish oil. Key markets include:

Aquaculture feed (especially in Asia)
Livestock feed
Pet food
Nutraceuticals (omega-3 supplements)

Use this phase to determine:

Raw material availability (sardines, anchovies, mackerel)
Target customers
Price trends

2. Register Your Business in Morocco

Commercial Registry registration in Morocco
Tax ID (Identifiant Fiscal)
CNSS registration (social security for workers)
Environmental permits from the Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development

3. Secure Land & Licenses

Choose a coastal location close to fishing ports (e.g., Agadir, Laâyoune, Dakhla). Apply for:

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
Industrial operation license
Sanitary approval from ONSSA (National Food Safety Office)

4. Set Up Processing Equipment

Fishmeal and fish oil production involves:

Cooking → Pressing → Drying → Grinding (for fishmeal)
Separation → Purification (for fish oil)

You’ll need:

Cookers, presses, centrifuges
Fish dryers
Oil separators and storage tanks

Partner with reliable equipment suppliers in Europe or Asia for efficient, eco-friendly systems.

5. Hire and Train Staff

You’ll need a mix of:

Marine biologists or fish technologists
Factory operators
Quality control personnel
Maintenance and logistics teams

Training in HACCP and sustainable fishery practices is essential.

6. Source Raw Materials

Work with local fishing cooperatives or fish processing companies to obtain:

By-products (fish offcuts, heads, guts)
Whole fish not suitable for human consumption

Ensure sustainable sourcing to comply with international standards.

7. Quality Control and Certification

Obtain certifications like:

ISO 22000 or FSSC 22000
HACCP
Friend of the Sea or Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) (for sustainability)

These improve trust and enable exports.

8. Export and Marketing Strategy

Morocco offers preferential trade agreements with:

European Union (EU)
United States (via FTA)
African markets (via AfCFTA)

Work with freight forwarders and export consultants to meet EU/US food and feed standards.

Investment Costs & Profit Potential

Expense Category	Estimated Cost (USD)
Land & Factory Construction	$300,000 – $800,000
Processing Equipment	$500,000 – $1,200,000
Licenses & Permits	$20,000 – $50,000
Operating Capital (1st year)	$200,000 – $500,000
Total Initial Investment	$1M – $2.5M+

Profit margins can range between 20%–35%, depending on yield, export prices, and production scale.

FAQs

1. What fish species are best for fishmeal production in Morocco?

Main species include sardines, anchovies, mackerel, and fish processing by-products.

2. Is fishmeal production environmentally friendly?

If done responsibly, yes. You must follow environmental regulations, use waste management systems, and opt for sustainable fish sourcing.

3. Can I export fishmeal from Morocco to Europe?

Yes, Morocco has strong trade ties with the EU. Ensure your plant meets EU feed safety and hygiene standards.

Conclusion

Launching a fishmeal and fish oil plant in Morocco is a high-potential investment tapping into the country’s marine wealth and growing global demand. With the right planning, technology, and compliance, you can build a sustainable, export-driven business in one of Africa’s most promising blue economy sectors.

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