March 28, 2025

Morocco extends wheat import subsidies amid ongoing drought

Morocco has announced the extension of its subsidy programme for soft wheat imports until the end of the year in response to the prolonged drought affecting agricultural production.

The National Interprofessional Office for Cereals and Legumes (ONICL) confirmed that subsidies for importers will continue from May to December 31, 2025. The grains agency stated that further details will be provided soon.

Morocco has been experiencing drought for six consecutive seasons, raising concerns over food security and agricultural output. Local authorities estimate that the country's wheat harvest in 2024 will decline by approximately 50%, further impacting cereal production.

Despite the ongoing drought, Morocco's central bank, Bank Al-Maghrib, has projected a slight increase in this year's grain harvest. The bank estimates that total grain production will reach 35 million quintals, an improvement from last year's 31.2 million quintals. However, this remains significantly lower than the 55.1 million quintals recorded during the 2022-2023 season.

Bank Al-Maghrib also forecasts a 2.5% rise in the agricultural sector's added value this year, supported by the expected grain harvest and an increase in non-grain agricultural production.

To address the situation, the Moroccan government has implemented several measures, including subsidies for imported cereals and awareness campaigns on efficient water use.

In a significant decision, King Mohammed VI announced the cancellation of this year's Eid Al-Adha sacrifice ritual to mitigate the sharp decline in the cattle population.

Water sources have been severely affected by the drought, with the dam filling rate recorded at 28% or 4.5 billion cubic metres as of February. Recent rainfall has slightly improved the situation, raising the filling rate to 33%, exceeding 5 billion cubic metres.

- Morocco World News