Blue economy assessments highlight growth potential in Morocco and Cameroon

Recent reports from the World Bank and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) highlight the significant economic contributions and untapped potential of the blue economy in Morocco and Cameroon.

In Morocco, the blue economy accounts for 3.8 percent of GDP and supports approximately 495,000 full-time equivalent jobs. The sector shows high regional concentration, contributing 12 percent of local GDP in Agadir and 6.5 percent in Tangier. A major growth opportunity lies in aquaculture, where current production of 3,500 tons is far below the national target of 300,000 tons. Achieving this target could create up to 52,000 additional jobs by 2035. However, the sector faces risks from climate change, with coastal erosion costing $434 million annually.

In Cameroon, the first national blue economy evaluation reveals the sector generates 5.8 percent of GDP and supports nearly 300,000 jobs. The assessment, supported by the ECA, estimates the value of services provided by aquatic ecosystems at 22.6 trillion CFA francs annually. Fisheries, aquaculture, and fish processing drive over two-thirds of the sector's measured value added and more than 80 percent of its jobs. The findings suggest significant opportunities for economic diversification and private sector mobilization through the management of natural capital.