The continuing impact of drought remains evident in Morocco, as a new report by Asharq Business indicated that the country is to poised experience its worst grain harvest in 17 years.
The Kingdom, as a consequence, will be compelled to import around 75% of its annual grain needs, which are estimated to surpass 10 million tons, half of which comprises wheat.
“The current season could be the worst of the lean years that the Kingdom has experienced, forcing a massive import reliance,” said Abdelkader Alaoui, president of the National Federals of Mills.
On his part, Rachid Benali, president of the Moroccan Confederation of Agriculture and Rural Development (Comader) highlighted that “the expected production will inevitably be lower than the previous season because the climatic conditions were not favorable, especially in the first months,” namely October, November, and December.
Comader chairman noted that “even in years when Morocco archives large grain production, it resorts to imports and is keen to diversify its supply sources to meet demand and build up reserves.”
“Fortunately, prices are currently low on the international market, which means that the costs of imports will not be high,” he underscored.
The President of the National Federals of Mills further amplified that lower global grain prices mean that the state won’t support importers due to the abundant supply.
“Since the current period witnesses an abundance of supply in the markets, and with the new harvest approaching, prices may decrease further, easing pressure on the kingdom’s budget,” predicted Alaoui.
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