Agricultural production forecasts released for Morocco and Algeria

In Morocco, Minister of Agriculture Khalid Hatimy announced that date production is projected to reach approximately 180,000 tonnes for the 2026-2027 agricultural campaign. Speaking at the 15th International Date Fair (SIDATTES 2026) in Erfoud, Hatimy noted that national consumption ranges between 220,000 and 250,000 tonnes annually, highlighting the need to boost domestic production and regulate imports.

The date sector is a vital economic driver for oasis territories, generating over 3 billion dirhams in value and supporting nearly 2 million citizens. Efforts are underway to enhance storage capacities, regulate market prices, and support farmers in accessing international markets.

In the Sidi Bel-Abbès province of Algeria, agricultural services expect a cereal production exceeding two million quintals. This forecast is driven by expanded cultivation areas for durum wheat, soft wheat, and barley, alongside the use of climate-resistant varieties.

To support this campaign, authorities have mobilized 132,326 hectares for sowing and provided over 70,000 quintals of seeds and 165 pieces of agricultural equipment through local cooperatives to mitigate water deficits and improve yields.