Africa's coastline spans 30,000 kilometres and its exclusive economic zones host some of the world's most productive fisheries including the Benguela Current upwelling off West and Southern Africa. Total fish catches from African waters are estimated at 10 to 12 million tonnes annually, but African vessels and companies capture only a fraction. Much of the remainder is taken by EU, Chinese, and Russian fleets under licensing agreements transferring minimal value to coastal communities. African fish and seafood exports earned approximately $6 billion in 2023, with Morocco the largest exporter at $1.7 billion annually.
Aquaculture: The Growth Engine
Aquaculture is Africa's fastest-growing food production sector. Egyptian tilapia and shrimp, Nigerian catfish, Zambian tilapia, and South African abalone are all established commercial operations. Illegal fishing costs African nations an estimated $1.3 billion annually; Cabo Verde and Seychelles have become regional models for effective fisheries governance and vessel monitoring. Seafood buyers and aquaculture investors can access African fisheries trade contacts on intra-africa.com.
For businesses looking to expand across Africa, intra-africa.com offers a comprehensive trade directory, verified buyer and seller listings, and real-time market intelligence covering all 54 African nations. It remains an indispensable resource for anyone serious about intra-African commerce.