Morocco’s grain market has become a field of intense competition, particularly between France, Russia and other major exporters, who seek to exploit the country’s growing demand.
In Morocco, cereals are essential for human and animal nutrition, as well as for food security. They occupy 71% of the country’s usable agricultural area and represent 24% of added value. Due to drought and climate change, grain production has fallen sharply.
In order to meet growing demand, Morocco is seeking to secure its cereal supply. In this context, initiatives such as the recent state visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Morocco have made it possible to strengthen bilateral cooperation, particularly through agreements on agricultural research, innovation in seeds and irrigation. , as well as the development of resilient agricultural practices in the face of climate challenges.
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The grain trade between France and Morocco is a historic pillar of economic exchanges between the two countries. France has long been Morocco’s main wheat supplier, accounting for around 55% of annual imports. However, this dominant position is being tested by the rise of Russia, which has been able to take advantage of its attractive prices to capture market share.
Indeed, figures indicate that Russia has surpassed France in terms of volumes exported to Morocco, becoming the country’s leading wheat supplier. This development reflects a complex geopolitical dynamic, where Russia seeks to extend its influence in North Africa by increasing agricultural partnerships.
Morocco suffers from recurring droughts which affect its cereal production, making its imports even more necessary. In this sense, competition in this market is all the more important. France, although faced with this increased competition, remains a key player thanks to the quality of its cereals, particularly appreciated by Moroccan millers. However, the question of price competitiveness becomes crucial in a context where Russia, despite economic sanctions, manages to offer very attractive prices.
Remember, an American trade mission, scheduled for early December 2024, aims to strengthen commercial ties between Morocco and the United States, by highlighting American agricultural exports, particularly in the cereal, dairy and nuts.
