Competition Council Sounds Alarm on Morocco’s Grain Reserve Deficit
Strategic Grain Reserves: A Lifeline for Morocco’s Food Security
Morocco’s reliance on imports has left the country vulnerable to supply shocks, particularly during drought years or periods of global instability. The Competition Council has sounded the alarm, emphasizing the need for a strategic grain reserve to ensure food security and economic stability.
Regulatory Framework Lacking
The National Office of Cereals and Pulses is responsible for managing Morocco’s grain reserves, but its effectiveness is hampered by an incomplete regulatory framework. Law 12-94 grants the Office the authority to create a grain reserve, but the implementing decree defining its operation, storage, and financing has yet to be issued.
Urgent Need for Reform
The Council has called on the government to publish the missing regulation urgently, highlighting the country’s strong dependence on imports, exacerbated by unfavorable climatic conditions and geopolitical crises. This underscores the need for a clear vision for sustainable food self-sufficiency and long-term agricultural development, including water management and supply security.
Strengthening Grain Storage: A Structural Necessity
The Council recommends creating a special fund to finance strategic grain reserves, supported by the state budget, sectoral support, and public-private partnerships. A strong reserve would protect Morocco from international price swings, while also supporting local farmers by ensuring a stable market for their production.
Conclusion
Morocco’s failure to establish a strategic grain reserve leaves the national market vulnerable to shocks. The Competition Council’s warning highlights the urgent need for reform to guarantee the country’s long-term resilience. By strengthening grain storage and creating a safety net for farmers, Morocco can ensure a stable food supply and support its agricultural sector.
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