Morocco’s agriculture minister said Tuesday that the country expects a significant improvement in its agricultural output this season, driven by strong rainfall and rising water reserves.
Ahmed El Bouari said cereal production is projected to reach 90 million quintals this year, attributing the increase to improved precipitation across major farming regions.
Speaking at the opening of the 18th edition of the International Agriculture Show in Morocco, El Bouari said fruit crops, particularly olives, citrus fruits and dates, have also shown strong performance.
He said agricultural GDP is expected to grow by around 15% compared with last year, reflecting what he described as a positive trend for the sector.
The minister added that rainfall and snowfall have significantly improved Morocco’s water reserves, which now stand at about 13 billion cubic meters, or 76% capacity. He said the reserves will help secure irrigation needs for spring and summer crops and support upcoming irrigation programs.
The recovery comes after several years of severe drought that had weighed heavily on rural activity and agricultural production.
El Bouari said the government has introduced a series of measures to support farmers and ensure stable supply to domestic markets during the period of climate stress and global economic uncertainty.
He also highlighted the strategic importance of livestock production, calling it a key pillar of Morocco’s agricultural economy and rural employment.
According to ministry figures, Morocco has about 33 million head of livestock, including sheep, goats, cattle and camels, producing roughly 530,000 tons of red meat and 2 billion liters of milk annually. Poultry production stands at about 784,000 tons of white meat and 6.5 billion eggs.
El Bouari said livestock accounts for about 35% of agricultural GDP and provides roughly 135 million workdays per year.
He added that the government has launched a special program to rebuild the national herd, support livestock farmers and strengthen animal feed production and veterinary monitoring systems.
On the sidelines of the forum, Portuguese Agriculture Minister José Manuel Fernandes emphasized the need for stronger cooperation between Morocco and Portugal, calling both countries “friends” working toward sustainable food systems.
He said both nations face shared challenges related to climate change and water management, stressing the importance of technological innovation and regional cooperation.
Fernandes also underscored the role of agriculture in food security and called for investment in drought-resistant crops, digital tools and improved animal health systems.
The SIAM forum, held annually in Meknes, is one of Africa’s largest agricultural events and serves as a platform for policy discussions, innovation and international partnerships.
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