Moroccan Agriculture Thrives Despite Climate Challenges, Boasting 6.2% Growth

Morocco's agricultural sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience despite facing challenging climatic conditions over the past two growing seasons. According to a recent report from the Directorate of Financial Studies and Forecasts (DEPF), the sector achieved a 6.2% increase in value added during 2023. This recovery comes after a sharp 12.9% decline the previous year, emphasizing the sector's determination to overcome environmental adversity.

A key factor contributing to this resurgence has been a significant increase in rainfall over recent months. As of March 31, 2024, cumulative rainfall reached 226.2 millimeters, which is 12% higher than the previous campaign and 2% above the five-year average. This welcomed rainfall has helped replenish water reserves, with the filling rate of dams designated for agricultural purposes reaching 32% by April 9, 2024, almost matching the 34% rate on the same date in 2023.

This increase in rainfall has had a positive impact on spring crops, boosting vegetation growth across the kingdom. Satellite imagery from Morocco's Royal Center for Spatial Remote Sensing has shown significant improvements in vegetation cover, particularly in regions like Rabat-Sale-Kenitra, Fes-Meknes, Casablanca-Settat, Beni-Mellal-Khénifra, Marrakech-Safi, and Souss-Massa. However, despite these improvements, vegetation cover across the entire Kingdom still lags behind levels seen the previous year.

As of the end of March 2024, only 39.6% of arable land was classified as being in good condition, a noticeable drop from the 49.4% recorded in March 2023. Moderate and poor conditions account for 21.1% and 27.9%, respectively. However, some regions have shown notable progress, with over 50% of arable land in good condition. Rabat-Sale-Kenitra leads the way with 86%, followed by Fes-Meknes with 82%, Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima with 72%, and Casablanca-Settat with 50%.

In contrast, some regions continue to face challenges due to scarce arable lands. Marrakech-Safi has only 12% in good condition, while Souss-Massa has 8%, Draa-Tafilalet 2%, Guelmim-Oued-Noun 2%, and Oriental just 1%.

Despite the sector's resilience in dealing with climate challenges, a decline has been observed in exports. By the end of February 2024, exports in the agriculture and agro-food sector dropped by 0.7%, following a 1.2% decrease in January 2024, and a 7.6% increase in February 2023. This downturn is primarily due to a 6.7% drop in food industry product exports, though it was partly offset by a 3.9% increase in agricultural, forestry, and hunting product exports.

Morocco's agricultural sector continues to navigate the complexities of a changing climate. Its resilience and adaptability are a testament to the nation's commitment to ensuring food security and economic stability. With a renewed focus on sustainable practices and innovative solutions, the future of Moroccan agriculture looks promising, ready to meet any challenges that come its way.