Morocco to invest US$1.74B in agriculture, fisheries

MOROCCO – Morocco’s Ministry of Agriculture has announced a projected investment budget of MAD 17.27 billion (US$1.74 billion) for 2025 under the forthcoming Finance Bill. 

This increase, disclosed by Agriculture Minister Ahmed El Bouari on Tuesday, was presented during his briefing to the Committee on Productive Sectors in the House of Representatives.

Agricultural investment alone is forecasted to see a 4% rise next year, climbing to MAD 14.21 billion (US$1.43 billion) from MAD 13.62 billion (US$1.37 billion) in 2024. 

Sustainable development initiatives are expected to receive MAD 1.74 billion ($176 million), and the maritime fisheries sector will see an allocation of around MAD 359 million (US$36.33 million).

Within the agriculture budget, MAD 6.63 billion (US$670.94 million) is earmarked specifically for irrigation projects and the development of agricultural land. 

An additional MAD 6.24 billion (US$631.47 million) will support agricultural production efforts, while MAD 760 million (US$76.91 million) is designated for health safety within the sector.

Agriculture focused education, training, and research will be allocated MAD 468 million (US$47.36 million), focusing on advancing agricultural expertise. 

Meanwhile, rural development is set to receive MAD 1 billion (US$101.19 million) to finance the territorial and social disparities reduction program. 

Connectivity and inclusive development for rural and mountainous areas will also be targeted, with MAD 742 million (US$75 million) allocated to these efforts.

The ministry’s management budget is projected to increase by 6%, totaling MAD 4.71 billion (US$476.64 million) in 2025. 

For maritime fisheries, MAD 588 million (US$59.50 million) is budgeted, while the water and forests sector will have an allocation of MAD 797 million (US$80.65 million).

Both agriculture and fisheries remain priority sectors for Morocco. 

The country launched its latest agricultural season in October, introducing measures to aid farmers struggling with water shortages and other challenges. 

These initiatives include securing seeds and fertilizers, enhancing irrigation water management, expanding agricultural insurance options, and increasing financing options for farmers.

Aiming to cover 5 million hectares, the ministry plans to distribute around 1.26 million quintals of certified seeds.

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