Togo’s fisheries output is projected to fall to 33,977 metric tons by the end of 2026, representing a decline of more than 6 percent from the 36,251 tons recorded in 2025, according to the Finance Ministry’s 2026 budget.
The Maritime and Plateaux regions are expected to account for the overwhelming majority of production, contributing 32,550 tons, or 96 percent of national output. Authorities attributed the concentration of activity to favorable natural conditions, including the Mono River in Plateaux and sea access in Maritime, as well as existing infrastructure such as fishing ports and landing sites.
No official explanation has been provided for the projected drop, though analysts point to factors such as overfishing, climate variability, and operational constraints that have periodically affected sector performance.
Development strategy
The government is continuing the implementation of a five-year fisheries development plan through 2028, launched in 2024 with an estimated cost of 20 billion CFA francs. The program aims to strengthen technical capacity, improve sector organization, and boost productivity across both inland and coastal fisheries.
Key measures under the plan include training programs for fishery stakeholders, support for scientific research on fish stocks and ecosystems, and institutional backing for the Conseil interprofessionnel de la filière poisson, Togo’s interprofessional fishery council. Officials say these interventions are designed to promote sustainable practices while enhancing the efficiency of the fishing industry.
Demand and import dependence
Togo faces significant pressure to increase domestic fish production. Annual consumption exceeds 100,000 tons, but local output meets only around 30 percent of national demand, leaving the country reliant on imports to fill the gap. Fish is a major source of protein for the Togolese population, making the sector critical for both nutrition and food security.
The projected decline in production could exacerbate dependence on imported fish, potentially affecting prices and accessibility for local consumers, particularly in urban centers such as Lomé and Sokodé.
Economic significance
Fisheries also contribute to employment, supporting livelihoods across the country. The sector provides direct jobs to fishers and workers in processing, transport, and marketing, while creating indirect employment in related industries such as boat construction, ice production, and feed supply.
Sustaining output is therefore seen as essential not only for meeting nutritional needs but also for supporting economic development, particularly in coastal and riverside communities.
Outlook
While the 6 percent decline in output is a concern, government authorities stress that continued investment and technical improvements could reverse the trend in the coming years. The fisheries development plan is expected to modernize the sector, improve management of natural resources, and expand the capacity to meet domestic demand.
Officials have also signaled intentions to encourage private sector participation, promote responsible aquaculture, and enhance data collection to inform policy decisions.
Despite the challenges, Togo’s fisheries sector remains a vital part of the national economy and food system. With strategic planning, investment, and sustainable practices, the government hopes to stabilize production, reduce import dependence, and strengthen the livelihoods of those who depend on the industry.
