Morocco’s Olive Production to Hit 1.07 Million Tons, Boosting Economy Despite Drought

Despite the severe water deficit recorded this year, national olive production is expected to reach 1.07 million tons in the fall of 2023, down 44% compared to the fall of 2021 (1.9 tons), the Ministry of Agriculture said in a press release, specifying that this decline concerns the regions of Marrakech-Safi, the Oriental and Béni Mellal-Khénifra. According to forecasts, 63% of this production should come mainly from the regions of Fès-Meknès (27%), the Oriental (19%) and Tanger-Tétouan-Al Hoceima (17%), it is indicated.

Considering the current prices, the olive production announced for the fall of 2023 should generate a turnover of around 7.4 billion DH, an increase of 10% compared to the fall of 2022. In order to enhance local production, the government has conditioned the export of fresh or refrigerated olives, processed olives, olive oil and olive pomace oil, on obtaining a license. This measure will remain in effect until December 31, 2024.

In addition, the ONSSA has set up a system for controlling the quality of olive oil throughout the production and distribution chain, in accordance with the regulations in force. As part of the Génération Green strategy for the 2021-2030 period, aimed at continuing the development of the olive sector, various actions are planned and require a budget of nearly 17 billion dirhams, including 8.3 billion dirhams expected from the State.