فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
As preparations for Ramadan intensify, with sardines being a staple on the iftar tables of many Moroccan families, concerns have grown over the significant increase in prices of this popular seafood item. A notable disparity in sardine prices has been observed in national markets, ranging from 5 to 30 dirhams per kilogram, amid a lack of effective oversight in wholesale markets. This has opened the door to speculation and negatively impacted citizens’ purchasing power.
Despite official statements setting the maximum price of sardines during the biological rest period at 17 to 20 dirhams per kilogram, field reports reveal a mismatch between these estimates and the actual prices consumers are forced to pay, especially in major cities. This situation contradicts the abundance of supply in Moroccan markets, raising questions about the effectiveness of the mechanisms in place to regulate the sector and ensure citizens benefit from the national seafood wealth at reasonable prices.
In this context, a written question has been directed to the Secretary of State in charge of Maritime Fisheries, inquiring about the measures taken to regulate sardine prices, particularly with the increased demand during Ramadan, and to curb speculation that affects citizens’ purchasing power. The question also addresses the mechanisms for monitoring wholesale markets, their effectiveness in reducing chaos and ensuring price stability, as well as the planned measures to enhance the transparency of the fish market and achieve a balance between supply and demand to protect Moroccan consumers.
This inquiry comes at a time when modern techniques are being adopted to manage model fish markets. However, these techniques have not positively impacted price regulation or the reduction of speculation, highlighting the need to review these mechanisms to ensure their effectiveness in regulating the sector.
As citizens await responses from officials, the situation remains tense, especially with Ramadan approaching. Sardines are a key element of iftar meals, making it crucial to regulate their prices to ensure accessibility for all social groups at reasonable rates.
