The Moroccan government is turning to imports to curb the rise in olive oil prices.
Olive oil, a staple in Moroccan cuisine, is experiencing a dramatic increase in prices. The price of a liter of olive oil, previously sold for around 60 dirhams, now exceeds 120 dirhams. This situation has raised major concerns among consumers, with the main cause of the price hike being attributed to prolonged drought and harsh weather conditions.
Particularly, key olive-producing regions such as Qalaat Saraghna and Chiadma have seen a 40 to 50 percent loss in production in recent years. Abdelkarim El Shafei, vice president of the Moroccan Consumer Rights Association, noted that recent frosts have also negatively impacted production. In some factories, the cost of producing one liter of olive oil has reached 95 dirhams, and when combined with commercial margins, this has led to record prices.
The Moroccan government has decided to allow olive oil imports from Spain and Turkey in an effort to combat rising prices. The lower production costs in these countries may help temporarily reduce prices. However, experts argue that imports offer only a short-term solution and do not address the structural issues within the industry.
Moroccan consumers continue to prefer the locally produced “Baladi” olive oil, known for its superior quality. Despite imported oils being cheaper, the longer shelf life and unique taste of “Baladi” oil still make it the favored choice.
The crisis in the olive oil sector in Morocco is prompting some farmers to turn to alternative crops. This could lead to a reduction in olive groves and result in a larger structural crisis in the sector. Experts emphasize that the government needs to develop appropriate irrigation policies and programs to encourage olive tree planting to support local production.
The long-term steps taken by the government will not only affect the olive oil sector but also the future of thousands of farmers dependent on this industry.
