Morocco Aims to Dominate EU Medical Cannabis Market, Eyeing Billions in Revenue

Since Morocco legalized medical cannabis in 2021, investments have been pouring in, attracting nearly 200 companies in this rapidly expanding sector. The Moroccan Federation of the Pharmaceutical Industry and Innovation even forecasts annual revenues that could reach 6.3 billion dirhams within four years, if the country manages to achieve its market share objectives in Europe.

The first export of low-THC cannabis resin to Switzerland, carried out in the second quarter of this year, marks a decisive turning point for Morocco. Even if the exported quantities remain modest for the moment, this operation is generating real enthusiasm and reflects the high expectations of Moroccan companies in the sector.

The pharmaceutical company Sothema, for example, has already developed around fifteen cannabis-based medicines to relieve pain related to serious illnesses such as cancer, multiple sclerosis or epilepsy.

But the path to success is strewn with obstacles. The Moroccan cannabis industry must meet several challenges, including its dependence on imported seeds and the vagaries of the climate, such as the extreme weather conditions that affected the first legal harvest.

To address these difficulties, the National Agency for the Regulation of Cannabis Activities (ANRAC) is actively working on the certification of the local cannabis variety "beldia", known for its drought resistance. This initiative could allow Morocco to reduce its dependence on imports and better adapt to climate constraints.