Rabat – After several years marked by drought and uncertainty, Morocco’s agricultural season is finally showing signs of improvement.
Speaking to the House of Councillors on Tuesday, Minister of Agriculture Ahmed El Bouari described the current season as “viable” despite initial setbacks. He noted that nearly 25% of the country’s cereal-growing areas have already been harvested.
El Bouari said the season began on a hopeful note with early rainfall in October. However, this optimism was short-lived, as rainfall became scarce from November through February across much of the country.
The prolonged dry spell forced many farmers to reduce their planting efforts, resulting in only 3.2 million hectares being sown with autumn grains.
Conditions began to improve in March, when substantial rainfall returned. This rejuvenated crops and pastures and lifted farmer morale. By early June, cumulative rainfall had reached 302 millimeters—still 23% below the average for a typical season, but 14% higher than last year’s levels.
Water reservoirs also reflect the positive shift. Irrigation dams now hold approximately 5.2 billion cubic meters, with a filling rate of 37%, up from 30% during the same period last year.
“The return of rain has enhanced vegetation cover across many regions,” El Bouari told lawmakers. This boost in greenery not only improved the performance of autumn crops where conditions permitted but also revitalized spring crops such as legumes and oilseeds.
The national livestock sector is also benefitting from the improved conditions. Years of poor pasture growth had severely strained herders, but the current greenery is offering some much-needed relief and helping restore balance in the sector.
El Bouari projected that the cereal harvest will reach 44 million quintals this year—a 41% increase over last season. Although still short of historic highs, this figure signals a meaningful recovery.
Currently, 21% of cereal fields have already been harvested. The minister emphasized that the government remains committed to supporting farmers across all sectors, aiming to stabilize agricultural production and safeguard domestic food supplies.
Spring crops are also performing well. Around 187,000 hectares have been planted so far. In the vegetable sector, farmers exceeded expectations by planting over 73,000 hectares—104% of the ministry’s original target.
El Bouari concluded by noting that the sector could grow by 5.1% this year, driven by improved yields and stronger pasture conditions. This growth could help recover some of the rural jobs lost to recent droughts, many of which have proven hard to replace.
Key Terms and Concepts
1. What Is a Viable Agricultural Season in 2025?
A viable agricultural season means crop performance is sufficient to meet food supply, support incomes, and stabilize rural economies despite challenges. In 2025, Morocco achieved this after March rains revived early-failing crops. This viability ensures grain harvests and pasture regrowth for livestock. It’s crucial for food security and rural employment. For example, the expected 44 million quintal cereal harvest confirms season viability.
2. How Has Drought Affected Morocco’s Agriculture?
Drought refers to prolonged periods of low rainfall, reducing soil moisture and water availability. In Morocco, drought over the past years has cut crop yields, shrunk pasture, and pushed farmers into debt. In 2025, rainfall remained 23% below average, though March rains softened the impact. Drought limits planting areas—only 3.2 million hectares were sown this year. It also weakens national food supply chains.
3. What Is the Role of Autumn Grains in Moroccan Farming?
Autumn grains like wheat and barley are staple crops planted in late fall and harvested in spring. They make up the backbone of Morocco’s cereal production, essential for bread, animal feed, and rural income. In 2025, due to early drought, fewer fields were planted, reducing yield potential. Farmers rely on these crops for both consumption and market sales. Their success affects food prices and inflation.
4. How Does Rainfall Impact Crop Yields?
Rainfall is the primary water source for Morocco’s largely rainfed farming system, directly affecting seed germination, growth, and harvest. In 2025, a late surge in rainfall to 302mm improved yields despite early drought stress. Better rainfall revived cereals, legumes, and pasture. For example, spring rains enabled 73,000+ hectares of vegetables to be planted, exceeding targets. Inconsistent rains still limit long-term planning.
5. What Is the Current Status of Water Reserves in Morocco?
Water reserves in dams and reservoirs are essential for irrigation, drinking water, and industrial use. In 2025, Morocco’s irrigation dams reached 5.2 billion cubic meters, with a 37% fill rate—up from 30% last year. These reserves support regions with poor rainfall and are key to national drought strategy. Farmers in areas like Doukkala and Tadla depend on this water. Low reserves often trigger emergency aid.
6. Why Is Vegetation Cover Important for Farmers?
Vegetation cover refers to plant growth on land, including crops and natural pasture. It helps retain soil, prevent erosion, and provide grazing for animals. In 2025, improved vegetation due to March rains reduced pressure on livestock feed. Healthy cover also reflects better farming conditions overall. For example, greener pastures supported Morocco’s recovering national herd. It’s a visual indicator of agricultural health.
7. How Does Agriculture Support Morocco’s National Herd?
The national herd—mainly sheep, goats, and cattle—relies on pasture for feed. Agricultural performance affects livestock by determining feed quality and availability. In 2025, improved pasture from spring rains helped struggling herders reduce feed costs and losses. After years of dry grazing, this relief is vital. A strong herd boosts rural income, meat production, and market stability.
8. What Are Morocco’s 2025 Cereal Harvest Expectations?
Cereal harvest refers to the total quantity of grain crops like wheat and barley collected annually. In 2025, Morocco projects 44 million quintals—a 41% rise from last year—thanks to late-season rain. This harvest stabilizes flour supply and lowers dependence on imports. It also supports national reserves and rural economies. Cereal success often shapes Morocco’s annual food security outlook.
9. What Does a 5.1% Sector Growth Mean for Rural Morocco?
Sector growth of 5.1% in agriculture indicates increased productivity and output value. In 2025, this growth could restore rural jobs lost to past droughts and boost local economies. It reflects improved yields in cereals, vegetables, and livestock. For example, surplus vegetable planting exceeded 104% of targets. Growth brings investment, stabilizes markets, and supports poverty reduction.
10. Why Are Spring Crops Important in 2025?
Spring crops like legumes and oilseeds are planted after winter and harvested before summer. In 2025, these crops helped balance early-season losses, covering 187,000 hectares. They improve crop diversity, soil fertility, and farmer income. Their resilience to late rain makes them essential in climate-uncertain years. For example, chickpeas and sunflower crops saw a revival due to improved rainfall.
11. What Role Does the Agriculture Ministry Play in Drought Recovery?
The Ministry of Agriculture leads planning, monitoring, and emergency support during droughts. In 2025, it provided data, subsidies, and seed support to mitigate early rainfall gaps. It also tracks dam levels and planting progress. Minister El Bouari’s 2025 updates ensured transparency. The ministry’s coordination helps prevent agricultural collapse and ensures food supply continuity.
12. How Is Climate Change Affecting Moroccan Agriculture in 2025?
Climate change brings unpredictable weather, delayed rains, and extreme heat, harming agriculture. In 2025, Morocco faced delayed rains and temperature swings affecting planting decisions. These shifts reduce crop reliability and stress water systems. Adaptation now includes better forecasting and drought-resistant crops. For example, farmers delayed sowing until March to wait for viable moisture.
13. Why Are Cereal Fields Harvested in Phases?
Harvesting cereal crops in phases helps align with varying regional climates and crop maturity. In 2025, 21% of cereal fields have been harvested by June, with the rest maturing gradually. Phased harvests prevent grain loss and spread labor needs. High-altitude areas like the Middle Atlas finish later. This process supports better logistics and market timing.
14. What Are the Economic Risks of Drought in Morocco?
Drought increases food prices, reduces exports, raises rural debt, and slows GDP growth. In 2025, early drought forced smaller planting areas, risking national food supplies. Without rain in March, the impact could’ve been severe. Losses hurt government budgets due to higher food imports and emergency aid. Drought-hit regions also see job migration and abandoned farmland.
15. How Are Farmer Livelihoods Shaped by Seasonal Rainfall?
Seasonal rainfall determines planting success, pasture health, and income stability for Moroccan farmers. In 2025, delayed rains threatened these livelihoods until March relief allowed recovery. Crop sales, livestock feed, and rural jobs all hinge on rainfall. A poor season leads to debt and food insecurity. This year’s rebound offers hope, but long-term risks remain.
