Rabat, Morocco — A robust recovery in Morocco’s agricultural sector is anticipated, with the Agriculture Minister Ahmed El Bouari forecasting a cereal harvest of around 90 million quintals for the 2026 season. This projection, unveiled at the International Agriculture Show (SIAM) in Meknes, marks a significant surge from the previous season’s output, which topped out at just 44 million quintals.
In a statement made on Tuesday, El Bouari credited the anticipated increase to the recent rainfall, which has been pivotal in expanding cultivated areas and improving crop conditions.
The country has experienced rainfall levels 86. 6% higher than the norm, contributing to a robust agricultural season following several years of drought.
The unusually intense rainfall this winter season has also helped to raise dam levels across the nation, culminating in a 75% fill rate, equivalent to nearly 13 billion cubic meters.
The expected cereal output is based on an estimated 3. 9 million hectares planted with the three main autumn cereals: soft wheat, durum wheat, and barley. This represents an increase of over 48% compared to the previous season.
El Bouari also noted that the strong harvest, coupled with improved performance in other agricultural activities, is expected to elevate agricultural GDP by 15% in 2026.
In a strategic move to support domestic production and bolster national grain reserves, the government has decided to suspend soft wheat imports during June and July. Morocco aims to achieve an average cereal production of 80 million quintals by 2030, a goal that experts suggest will necessitate climate-resistant crop varieties, better mapping of productive agricultural areas, and wider adoption of techniques such as supplementary irrigation and direct seeding.
The success of the 2026 harvest season stands as a testament to Morocco’s agricultural sector’s resilience and adaptability, with potential implications for the country’s economic growth and international trade relations. Further details regarding the specific crops and the distribution of the harvest across different regions of Morocco are anticipated in the near future.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 4*
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By This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: moroccoworldnews
Source: Sara Zouiten
