Casablanca – Morocco’s cannabis sector has made remarkable strides in 2024, emerging as a key player in the growing global market for legal cannabis. The country, which has a long history of cannabis cultivation, has begun structuring its cannabis industry under the regulatory framework introduced by the National Agency for the Regulation of Cannabis-Related Activities (ANRAC). This transformation has not only opened new economic opportunities but also positioned Morocco as a potential leader in the global medical cannabis market.

Impressive production and rapid growth

In 2024, Morocco’s cannabis industry reached significant milestones, particularly in terms of production and regulatory compliance. The country produced a total of 4,082 tons of legal cannabis, cultivated across 2,169 hectares. This was a notable increase compared to previous years, driven by strong participation from local farmers and operators. The expansion of authorized cultivation areas, which grew from 300 hectares in 2023 to over 2,000 hectares in 2024, reflects the sector’s rapid development.

A total of 3,371 authorizations were granted by ANRAC in 2024, a massive jump from the 430 licenses issued the year prior. This increase demonstrates the strong interest from farmers who are keen to transition from illegal to regulated cannabis cultivation. Out of the 3,371 licenses, 3,056 were issued to farmers, allowing them to legally grow cannabis, while 315 were granted to operators involved in the manufacturing, marketing, and exportation of cannabis products.

The country’s cannabis cultivation is mainly divided between local “Beldia” varieties and imported strains. In 2024, 1,701 hectares were planted with Beldia, a traditional Moroccan variety known for its high-quality resin. The remaining 468 hectares were planted with imported cannabis strains, designed to improve yield and meet international standards. The average yield for Beldia was 17 quintals per hectare, while imported strains yielded an average of 28 quintals per hectare, underscoring the potential for further productivity improvements as the sector matures.

Marketing and exportation of cannabis products

One of the most significant developments in 2024 was Morocco’s first export of cannabis resin to Switzerland. A shipment of one quintal of cannabis resin, compliant with European standards (THC content below 1%), was sent to the European market, fetching a price range of $1,480-$1,740 per kilogram. Although this export was limited in size, it marks a strategic step toward positioning Morocco as a trusted supplier of medical cannabis in Europe, a rapidly expanding market.

Morocco’s cannabis exportation is still in its nascent stages, but the potential is enormous. The European cannabis market, which includes medical cannabis in 21 out of 27 EU countries, is projected to grow significantly in the coming years. Morocco aims to capture a 10-15% share of the European medical cannabis market, which could result in revenues ranging from $436 million to $654 million by 2028.

Additionally, Morocco’s cannabis products are gaining recognition in global markets. Ten Moroccan-produced cosmetic products have already been registered in Germany and France, and they are in the process of being registered in Poland and Belgium. Moroccan cooperatives have also been officially registered in five African countries, with plans to expand to other nations across the continent.

Manufacturing and value-added products

While the focus on cultivation remains a priority, Morocco is also making strides in the manufacturing and value addition of cannabis products. In 2024, 77 authorizations were granted for cannabis transformation activities, which include processing cannabis into oils, tinctures, and other pharmaceutical products. Additionally, 83 authorizations were issued for cannabis commercialization, while 67 licenses were given to companies for cannabis exportation. Morocco is working to establish a robust supply chain that supports both the domestic market and international trade, especially in Europe and other regions with expanding cannabis demand.

As part of its expanding industrial ambitions, Morocco is currently constructing 30 factories dedicated to producing medical and pharmaceutical cannabis products, with 7 factories already operational. Updates on the progress of these projects will be announced later. The industry is also focusing on creating new opportunities in sectors beyond healthcare, including construction, aeronautics, and agro-food. The use of cannabis-derived products in construction materials and aviation technology is a growing trend worldwide, and Morocco aims to tap into these emerging markets. This diversification could help Morocco’s cannabis sector withstand market fluctuations and create long-term economic stability.

Challenges and the road ahead

Despite these successes, the cannabis sector in Morocco faces several challenges. The country must improve its infrastructure, especially in terms of processing centers, storage facilities, and logistics to meet international market demands. Significant investments are required in these areas, as well as in research and development to improve the quality and variety of cannabis strains produced.

There is also the need to ensure that the benefits of the legal cannabis market reach local communities, particularly small farmers in remote, historically marginalized areas. The Moroccan government has made it clear that smallholder farmers must be integrated into this legal market, with support for financing and training to ensure that they can benefit from the transition to regulated cultivation.

Moreover, while Morocco is poised to lead in the global cannabis market, it faces stiff competition from countries like Canada, the United States, and Colombia. These nations already have established legal cannabis industries, and Morocco will need to differentiate itself by focusing on high-quality, sustainably grown cannabis, particularly its prized Beldia variety.

Looking ahead: 2025 and beyond

The year 2025 is set to be a pivotal one for Morocco’s cannabis sector. ANRAC’s action plan for 2025 focuses on further structuring the industry, reinforcing compliance, and improving the sector’s competitiveness. Efforts will be made to increase the number of cannabis farmers and operators, enhance international market access, and further develop the value-added cannabis product market.

As Morocco continues to build its legal cannabis industry, the country is positioning itself as a key player in the global cannabis economy. With the right investments and continued focus on quality, infrastructure, and international expansion, Morocco’s cannabis sector is poised for a prosperous future.