Moroccan agriculture shines at Paris International Agricultural Show

Morocco’s participation as the guest of honor at the Paris International Agricultural Show (SIA) has been met with resounding success. The country’s pavilion, showcasing the diversity and excellence of Moroccan agricultural products, drew a significant number of visitors, captivating both professionals and attendees with its rich offerings.

Organized under the supervision of the Agency for Agricultural Development (ADA), the Moroccan pavilion hosted 30 exhibitors representing 76 cooperatives. These cooperatives involve nearly 2,000 small-scale farmers from all 12 regions of the Kingdom. Running from February 22 to March 2, the pavilion’s remarkable visibility has bolstered the presence of Moroccan local products in French and European markets, while also unlocking new commercial opportunities for producers and exporters.

Mahjouba Chkail, Director of Development and Marketing of Local Products at the ADA, highlighted the pavilion’s success. She noted that the high visitor turnout, drawn by the authenticity and rich flavors of Moroccan products, has fostered a dynamic commercial environment. This momentum paves the way for sustainable partnerships with European distributors and importers.

The pavilion prominently featured Morocco’s most sought-after agricultural products, spanning 16 key sectors. These include olive and argan oils, dates, saffron, spices, and other prized local specialties that resonate with European consumers. The economic impact of this participation was also evident, with over 90 commercial partners engaging in discussions with Moroccan exhibitors to establish export agreements for the French market.

“This enthusiasm underscores the potential of Moroccan local products and their competitiveness on an international scale," said Chkail. "It also contributes to enhancing local value chains and improving the livelihoods of small producers.”

The national pavilion, covering 476 square meters, served as a vibrant showcase of Morocco’s agricultural wealth and diversity. It was inaugurated by the Head of Government, Aziz Akhannouch, in the presence of French President Emmanuel Macron during the show’s official opening ceremony. Several notable French figures visited the pavilion, including Prime Minister François Bayrou, Minister Delegate for Gender Equality and the Fight Against Discrimination Aurore Bergé, and Valérie Pécresse, President of the Île-de-France Region. The pavilion also received widespread support from the Moroccan community living in France.

This recognition of Morocco’s agricultural prowess at the SIA sets the stage for a reciprocal honor: France will be the guest of honor at the International Agricultural Show of Morocco (SIAM) in Meknès, scheduled for April 21-27.