Agricultural Campaign 2023-2024 in Morocco: Challenges and Measures
The 2023-2024 agricultural campaign encountered significant challenges due to delayed rainfall, resulting in prolonged drought at the season’s outset. In response, the Moroccan Ministry of Agriculture implemented a series of measures to support the struggling sector. The overarching goal was twofold: to ensure the campaign’s smooth progression and to foster growth within various agricultural domains.
Seed and Fertilizer Supply
Approximately 1.1 million quintals of certified cereal seeds were made available in the market. These seeds were subsidized, priced at 210 Moroccan Dirhams (DH) per quintal for soft wheat and barley, and 290 DH per quintal for durum wheat. The Ministry allocated financial support for the purchase of nitrogen fertilizers and seeds. Specific crops, including round tomatoes, onions, and potatoes, received targeted assistance. The objective was to secure a consistent supply of essential crops despite challenging conditions.
Development of Agricultural Sectors
The Agricultural Development Fund (FDA) actively encouraged investment in the agricultural sector. By incentivizing capital infusion, the FDA aimed to drive innovation and sustainable growth.
The newly introduced Generation Green strategy sought to attract investments by aligning them with environmentally conscious practices. This approach aimed to enhance productivity while safeguarding natural resources.
Irrigation Water Management
Programs were swiftly deployed to mitigate the impact of water scarcity. These efforts safeguarded both plant and animal assets during critical periods. Agricultural dams played a crucial role, achieving a 31% fill rate—up from the previous year’s 30%.
Agricultural Insurance
One million hectares received insurance coverage, protecting cereal, legume, and oilseed crops. This safety net aimed to mitigate losses caused by adverse weather events.
Cereal Production
The total area sown with major cereals decreased by 33% compared to the previous year, reaching 2.47 million hectares. Despite this reduction, the projected production for the three main cereals (soft wheat, durum wheat, and barley) stands at 31.2 million quintals—a 43% decline from the previous campaign.Notably, the regions of Fès-Meknès, Rabat-Salé-Kénitra, and Tanger-Tétouan-Al Hoceima contributed 84% to the national production.
Arboricultural and Horticultural Sectors
Favorable weather conditions from February onward facilitated the growth of arboricultural crops. Despite irrigation challenges, vegetable production (including tomatoes, onions, and potatoes) remained stable, yielding 5.6 million tons.
Support for the Livestock Sector
The government extended support to the livestock sector, recognizing its vulnerability to adverse climate conditions. Subsidies were allocated for barley and compound feed purchases, and water points were established for livestock hydration. The suspension of customs duties and VAT on sheep imports further ensured a steady market supply, especially in anticipation of Eid Al Adha.
Contribution to the National Economy
Despite climatic hurdles, the Moroccan agricultural sector demonstrated remarkable resilience. The 2023-2024 campaign underscored the sector’s adaptability and commitment to sustaining the nation’s food security.
Source : MAPMDREF
Source : Credit Agricole du Maroc