In 2024, Morocco confirmed its position as a key player in cannabis for legal use, thanks to rigorous structuring of this emerging economic sector. The National Agency for the Regulation of Cannabis Activities (ANRAC) presented impressive results: 4,082 tonnes of legal cannabis produced, spread over 2,169 hectares cultivated. This sector, governed by strict regulatory systems, aims to become a model of socio-economic development for the regions concerned.
The year 2024 marked a spectacular progression in the issuance of authorizations. With 3,371 authorizations granted, compared to only 430 in 2023, this increase reflects strong support from farmers and operators for the established legal framework. Of these authorizations, 3,056 were issued to farmers for cultivation and production, and 315 to operators for activities ranging from processing (77) to marketing (83), including export (67). and the creation of nurseries (2). These figures reflect an unprecedented dynamic, supported by a state desire to modernize this sector while strengthening economic inclusion in the producing regions, mainly located in the north of the country.
A legalized sector: economic leverage and social inclusion
Rigorous seed management has also played a key role in these achievements. In 2024, 7.6 million imported seeds were certified by ANRAC, while 1,717 quintals of local “Beldia” seeds were distributed to 112 cooperatives. These efforts enabled the planting of 2,169 hectares, divided between 1,701 hectares of the local Beldia variety, cultivated by 1,767 farmers grouped into 109 cooperatives, and 468 hectares of imported varieties, operated by 880 farmers distributed in 80 cooperatives. Agricultural yields were encouraging, with an average of 17 quintals per hectare for the local variety and 28 quintals for imported varieties, resulting in a total production of 4,082 tonnes for the year.
At the same time, ANRAC has carried out crucial initiatives to consolidate this sector, including the establishment of strict procedures for the use of seeds, the mobilization of financing for small farmers and prospecting missions aimed at promoting cannabis products. legal on international markets. These efforts aim to guarantee a secure framework for farmers and to strengthen the competitiveness of operators on the global stage. In addition, the agency intends to intensify its actions in 2025 to further structure the sector and maximize its economic benefits, in particular by facilitating access to international markets and promoting products from legal production.
Challenges ahead: competitiveness and infrastructure
Although this sector shows promising signs, it still faces challenges, such as the need to ensure that income directly benefits local populations. They must also respond to the rise in international demand by strengthening infrastructure and quality standards. With production already well supervised and ambitions displayed for 2025, Morocco is establishing itself as a major player in the production of legal cannabis, transforming a traditional culture into a modern and sustainable economic lever.
The development of legal cannabis in Morocco, as orchestrated by ANRAC, undeniably represents a major transformation in the country’s agricultural economy. With impressive figures, hundreds of cooperatives involved and production reaching 4,082 tonnes in 2024, the sector finally seems to be freeing itself from decades of legal vagueness and unregulated exploitation. However, behind this promising momentum lie structural challenges and risks that deserve careful consideration.
First, the royal will regarding the integration of small farmers into a regulated economy is a laudable step forward, but it must be accompanied by rigorous monitoring. These cannabis cultivators, often from historically marginalized areas, have long been the pillars of an artisanal culture focused on illegal circuits. The transition to a formal framework must guarantee them concrete benefits, in terms of income and in terms of social rights and economic protection. If the legal framework allows for the promotion of their work, it must also ensure that this sector does not become the prerogative of large companies or international interests, to the detriment of local communities.
A balance between tradition, modernity and public perception
Second, although ANRAC has laid the foundations for orderly production and marketing of legal cannabis, the real challenge lies in accessing international markets. Competition is tough, particularly with countries like Canada and the United States, where medical and recreational cannabis has already acquired a strong position. Morocco will have to focus on the quality of its products, relying on the image of the local variety “Beldia” and on certifications of international standards. A targeted marketing strategy will be crucial to position Moroccan cannabis as a premium product, and not just a commodity.
Furthermore, the infrastructure needed to meet global demand and ensure efficient logistics will need to be significantly strengthened. This includes the creation of processing centers, modern storage facilities, and a supply chain that meets international standards. These investments require substantial state and private commitment, but also increased vigilance regarding the environmental impact of the expansion of the sector.
Finally, it should be noted that the success of this initiative also depends on public perception. Although the legal use of cannabis is now anchored in a legal framework, it remains a sensitive subject in a country where the weight of traditions and cultural sensitivities is strong. Clear communication on the socio-economic benefits of the sector will be essential to avoid any stigmatization of the farmers and operators involved.
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