The 2024-2025 agricultural season in the irrigated area of Moulouya (province of Berkane) forecasts citrus production estimated at 192,300 tonnes, according to the Moulouya Regional Agricultural Development Office (ORMVAM). Nearly 60% of this production will be composed of clementines, widely popular on national and international markets.
Hafida El Aallam, head of the agricultural production service at ORMVAM, underlines the importance of clementine, the flagship variety of the Moulouya basin. Renowned for its high quality, it contributes significantly to the local economy by generating jobs on farms and packaging units.
However, the citrus industry continues to face climatic challenges, notably successive droughts and water shortages. Production recorded a drop of 14% during the previous season. Nevertheless, the precipitation and the improvement in water reserves at the start of the 2024-2025 campaign made it possible to revive the quality and volumes produced, particularly for late varieties such as “Maroc Late”.
Local efforts and future prospects
Kassimi Mohamed, operator of a 60-hectare farm dedicated to Berkane clementines, notes a clear improvement in production thanks to irrigation efforts supported by ORMVAM. This mobilization made it possible to preserve this variety prized for its organoleptic qualities.
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On the processing and export side, Jihane Belhouari, manager of a packaging station in Berkane, highlights the impact of this operational infrastructure since 2021. Exporting to European markets such as France, the Netherlands and Germany, as well as Asian countries such as Russia, this station plans to expand its activities to the production of organic products, thus providing new employment opportunities.
The citrus industry in figures
- Citrus cultivation occupies an area of more than 19,000 hectares in the Moulouya basin, or 25% of the irrigated area.
- Citrus fruits represent 40% of the total plantations in the irrigated area.
- This sector contributes to the creation of more than 2.8 million working days per year.
- Citrus fruits generate 23% of the overall added value of crop production in the region.
A promising future despite climate challenges
According to the Oriental Regional Directorate of Agriculture, improving irrigation cycles and water reserves at the start of the season has not only supported current production, but also prepares a good start for the next flowering phase. .
With technical support initiatives and strategies focused on organic production and diversified exports, the Moulouya citrus industry is positioning itself as a lever for sustainable development and resilience in the face of climate change.
The Moulouya citrus industry in figures:
- Cultivated area: More than 19,000 hectares, or 25% of the irrigated area of the perimeter.
- Share of citrus fruits in plantations: 40 % of total crops in the irrigated area.
- Forecast production (2024-2025): 192,300 tonnes, including 60% clementines.
- Job creation: More than 2.8 million working days per year on farms and packing stations.
- Added value: Represents 23% of the overall value of the crop production sector.
