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Rabat – Morocco is looking to import more dates as the holy month of Ramadan is just around the corner.
Recent reports shed light on Morocco’s efforts to ensure that local demand for dates is met amid challenges, including drought.
Recent remarks from Minister of Agriculture Ahmed Bouari acknowledged that the rainfall for the current season is weak compared to the past 30 years.
This would certainly affect the current agriculture season, which has faced struggles, such as less cereal production and imports of goods that are commonly harvested in the country.
A new report from agriculture-focused outlet FreshPlaza said that the overwhelming majority of dates that are available in markets, including Casablanca, are sourced from abroad.
The report noted Moroccan consumers are especially hungry for dates, before and during the holy month of Ramadan.
“This year, we’re seeing even fewer Moroccan dates because of the drought in the main growing areas,” the news outlet quoted one importer as saying.
Morocco does not only rely on Tunisian dates. The country also imports the product from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, among others.
In 2024 October, Morocco signed six new agreements as a step to boost the date palm sector.
The agreements aim to boost resilience in the Drâa-Tafilalet region, Morocco’s leading area for date production, by enhancing agricultural practices, encouraging industry innovation, and offering tailored support for local farmers.
In 2023, data from the ministry said Morocco’s date production was estimated at 115,000 tons during the 2023-2024 season.
Dates are highly consumed during the holy month of Ramadan across the world, particularly in Morocco.
Moroccans break their fast with dates and milk or water.
The holy month brings a vibrant atmosphere across the country. Muslims fast for 29 or 30 days depending on when the crescent moon is sighted. The holy month this year is expected to take place on March 1. Morocco’s Islamic Affairs Ministry will confirm the official date once the crescent moon is visible.