Casablanca – In response to escalating red meat prices and supply constraints, Morocco is diversifying its meat import sources by forging new agreements with international suppliers. The latest partnerships with Argentina and Spain aim to stabilize the domestic market, ensure food security, and provide relief to Moroccan households burdened by soaring costs.
A crisis of supply and affordability
Red meat prices in Morocco have reached unprecedented levels, with some cities, like Casablanca, seeing costs climb as high as $12.5 per kilogram. This surge stems from recurring droughts, rising feed costs, and fluctuating global markets, placing significant strain on consumers.
To alleviate this pressure, Morocco’s National Office for Food Safety (ONSSA) has signed an agreement with Argentina’s National Service for Agri-Food Health and Quality (Senasa). This agreement will enable the import of high-quality sheep and goat meat that meets Morocco’s strict health and Halal standards.
Similarly, an accord with seven Spanish companies has facilitated the importation of red meat at competitive prices. Spanish meat is now being sold locally at $7.22–$8.25 per kilogram, providing a more affordable alternative to domestic products.
Argentina and Spain: Strategic partners
Argentina, renowned for its premium meat products, is emerging as a key supplier for Morocco. With a commitment to delivering Halal-certified meat, Argentina has positioned itself as a reliable partner for the Moroccan market. In 2024, Argentina’s exports of sheep and goat meat exceeded 5,000 tons, including shipments to other major markets such as Qatar, Tunisia, and the Netherlands.
Spain’s contribution, meanwhile, includes the delivery of 40 tons of red meat to Morocco, with agreements priced at approximately $7.65 per kilogram. This collaboration underscores Spain’s role as a competitive and strategic supplier.
Broader goals for the meat sector
These import agreements align with Morocco’s broader strategy to modernize its meat sector and ensure long-term sustainability. Key targets include:
- Increasing domestic production to 850,000 tons annually by 2030.
- Upgrading 120 certified slaughterhouses.
- Boosting productivity by raising average carcass weights to 270 kg for cattle and 20 kg for sheep.
By leveraging these new partnerships, Morocco hopes to reduce dependence on local livestock, which has been heavily impacted by drought and rising input costs.
Looking ahead
The introduction of Argentine and Spanish meat to the Moroccan market represents a significant step toward stabilizing prices and meeting the growing demand in urban areas such as Casablanca and Rabat. These agreements not only address immediate supply challenges but also pave the way for a more competitive and sustainable meat sector.
As Morocco navigates these challenges, its efforts to diversify import sources and modernize local production signal a proactive approach to ensuring food security and consumer affordability in the years ahead.
