‘Morocco, a pioneer in the regulation of cannabis in Africa, took a significant step in 2024 in the structuring of its legal plant sector, marked by strict compliance with compliance standards.
During the annual meeting of the ANRAC Board of Directors, held last Thursday in Rabat, Mohamed El Guerrouj, Director General of the National Agency for the Regulation of Cannabis Activities (ANRAC), detailed the performances remarkable in the sector. “In 2024, approximately 4,000 tonnes of cannabis were produced on an area of 2,169 hectares,” he said, highlighting the substantial growth of the sector. But the most significant element of this year remains the total absence of violations of regulatory standards. “No offense related to regulatory non-compliance has been recorded,” added the official, emphasizing the effectiveness of the system put in place.
This progress is part of a dynamic of reinforced collaboration with the various stakeholders. El Guerrouj particularly insisted on the importance of the commitment of local authorities, relevant ministries and government institutions to ensure compliance with legislation, an essential framework to guarantee the transparency and rigor of the industry. The agency has also put in place support mechanisms for farmers and operators in the sector, so that they can comply with the strict requirements related to the production and distribution of cannabis.
The progress of the sector is also illustrated by the figures for licenses issued. In 2024, 3,371 permits were granted out of 4,158 applications, marking an impressive approval rate of nearly 81%. Of these permits, 3,056 were awarded to 2,907 farmers for the cultivation and production of cannabis, a significant jump compared to the 430 licenses issued in 2023. In addition, 315 licenses were granted to 158 operators in the sector. These figures reflect a real evolution of the sector, favoring an opening towards substantial economic opportunities for rural communities and private actors.
The repercussions of this growth are multiple, both nationally and internationally. Economically, this regulation aims to create sustainable jobs and improve farmers’ income, while integrating the private sector into a broader, structured and competitive market dynamic. This approach is part of a more global objective of Morocco, which aspires to become a world leader in the field of legal cannabis, while balancing regulatory rigor and economic development.
ANRAC has already planned a series of ambitious measures for 2025. The coming year will be marked by a strengthening of the legislative framework and the establishment of new surveillance measures to guarantee better product traceability. Particular emphasis will be placed on the competitiveness of the national market, in order to attract foreign investment and boost exports. “We will step up our efforts to further formalize the cannabis industry, by consolidating the legal bases and supporting local players in their development,” said Mr. El Guerrouj.
This progressive regulatory process aims to make Morocco a model of regulation in a booming sector on a global scale. By strictly and transparently regulating the cannabis industry, the kingdom hopes not only to boost its economy, but also to establish a sustainable and exemplary governance model for other nations on the continent and beyond.
Morocco, by taking these courageous measures, is showing its determination to pursue a thoughtful and ambitious regulatory policy. As the global cannabis market is structured around new standards, the country is establishing itself as a central player, relying on rigorous legislation and a rapidly growing economic sector.
MK/te/APA
