Morocco Turns to Brazil for Olive Oil Amid Severe Drought Crisis

The drought has had a negative impact on the sector, affecting the quantities of olive oil produced and prices. A drop in yield of more than 60% has already been recorded in some producing regions such as Fès-Meknès and Marrakech-Safi for the 2024-2025 season. This will be one of the worst in the history of the sector. The price of oil has risen to exceed 120 dirhams in some markets, an increase of more than 100% compared to the averages of recent years.

"Faced with an unprecedented olive oil crisis, Morocco has authorized the import of Brazilian olive oil in order to mitigate the effects of a chronic drought that has caused national production to fall to alarming levels," reports Barlamane.com, noting that this strategic choice "marks a turning point in the kingdom’s supplies." Until now, Morocco has been accustomed to sourcing from Mediterranean partners, particularly Spain, the world’s leading exporter, and Tunisia, whose oils are prized for their organoleptic balance.

The choice of Brazil is explained by the quality of its olive oil. It is beginning to distinguish itself on the international scene thanks to rigorous certifications and an upgrading favored by modern extraction techniques. By taking this option, Morocco is opening its market to emerging producers. Cooperation between Morocco and Brazil is thus strengthening. The former is a key supplier (phosphates) for Brazilian agriculture, while the latter is the kingdom’s leading supplier of beef and poultry.