Morocco is expected to import over 5 million tons of soft wheat this year due to a significant drop in domestic production. One of its primary suppliers, France, has encountered difficulties, experiencing a 26% decline in wheat exports attributed to adverse weather conditions.
As a result, Morocco’s wheat imports from France are projected to fall from 2.8 million tons in previous seasons to just 1.5 million tons for the 2024-2025 season.
In light of these challenges, Moroccan importers are increasingly seeking new markets, with Russia emerging as a key supplier. As the world’s largest grain exporter, Russia has become a primary source of soft wheat for Morocco. By August 2024, Morocco had imported 1.92 million quintals of soft wheat from Russia, a significant increase from the 0.33 million quintals imported from France during the same period.
Omar Yacoubi, president of the National Federation of Grain and Legume Traders (FNCL), noted that Russia’s rise in the market is driven by its competitive quality-price ratio. However, he cautioned that this shift is “purely cyclical” and does not indicate a long-term change, as Morocco has historically relied on French wheat.
To ensure a stable supply, Morocco is diversifying its import sources, exploring options from other European nations, including Romania, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Germany, Poland, and the Baltic states.
While global wheat prices have declined, they still remain above Morocco’s target price of 270 dirhams per quintal. Further price reductions could occur, depending on upcoming cereal harvests in the Southern Hemisphere, which are expected to begin in December.
This ongoing adjustment in Morocco’s wheat sourcing highlights the Kingdom’s adaptability in navigating global supply challenges and its commitment to securing food security amid agricultural constraints.
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