Saffron, nicknamed the “red gold” of Morocco, is going through a critical period, symbolizing both the agricultural wealth of the Kingdom and the growing challenges imposed by climatic hazards. On the front line, the producers, the true guardians of this sector.
During the 15th International Saffron Festival, held from November 7 to 10 in Taliouine, Abderrahmane Jekha, president of a local cooperative, summed up the situation: “This year, we saw a significant drop in production. Conditions were difficult and the drought did not spare our crops. Fortunately, recent rains give hope for the next season. »
However, this hope is tinged with uncertainties. Producers, forced to sell their harvest at only 35 dirhams per gram – well below the recommended 60 dirhams – are struggling to maintain their income. “We want everyone to be able to benefit from it, but this considerably reduces our income, already affected by low production,” explains Leila Boumekliouine, representative of a cooperative.
A strategic sector under pressure
Morocco, the world’s fourth largest producer of saffron, has relied on this crop for decades to stimulate its rural economy. The regions of Souss-Massa and Drâa-Tafilalet, which respectively represent 57% and 43% of national production, have however had to deal with unpredictable climatic conditions. Repeated droughts have weakened the soil, reducing yields and threatening national ambitions for 2030.
The program contract signed in May 2023 at the International Agricultural Show in Morocco (SIAM) sets ambitious objectives: tripling the cultivated areas to reach 3,000 hectares, producing 13.5 tonnes annually and improving the packaging rate to 70%. , compared to 55% in 2020.
Despite increasing global demand, the Moroccan saffron industry must evolve to face climate challenges. Investments in drip irrigation systems and innovative agricultural techniques are necessary to secure yields and promote the ancestral know-how of producers.
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Morocco is banking on saffron to consolidate its positioning on international markets, but without stronger support and appropriate climate management, the “red gold” could see its shine tarnished. The resilience of producers remains, once again, the key to preserving this unique wealth.
