Morocco Expands Meat Imports Through Argentina Partnership

Thursday 12 December 2024 - 16:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco Expands Meat Imports Through Argentina Partnership

Morocco is set to import up to 20,000 tons of red meat—both fresh and frozen—by the end of 2024 as part of its efforts to address domestic supply challenges. The latest move includes a new agreement to import sheep and goat meat from Argentina, broadening the existing beef trade between the two countries.

The agreement, announced yesterday, marks a significant step in Morocco’s strategy to stabilize its domestic meat market. This partnership was facilitated through Argentina’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, and the National Service for Agri-Food Health and Quality (SENASA).

To meet Morocco’s import requirements, Argentine exporters must adhere to two key conditions set by Morocco’s National Food Safety Office (ONSSA): securing health certificates from Argentine authorities and obtaining Halal slaughter certification from authorized Islamic organizations.

Addressing Supply Challenges

The expansion comes at a critical time for Morocco’s meat industry. Government spokesman Mustapha Baitas recently revealed that 10,000 tons of red meat have already been processed for import. This is part of the government’s broader goal to mitigate domestic pressures stemming from declining livestock numbers, a result of consecutive drought years and soaring feed prices.

In response, the Moroccan government has implemented various measures, including suspending import duties and value-added tax (VAT) on fresh and chilled meats. ONSSA has also enforced stringent quality controls, mandating health and Halal certificates and requiring imported meat to be stored in approved facilities.

Strategic Partnership with Argentina

Argentina’s robust meat export capabilities make it an ideal partner for Morocco. In the first nine months of 2024, Argentina’s beef exports surpassed 699,900 tons—a 50-year high. Additionally, between January and November 2024, Argentina exported over 5,000 tons of sheep and goat meat to countries including Brazil, Qatar, Spain, Israel, Tunisia, and the Netherlands.

The new trade agreement aligns with Morocco’s efforts to diversify its meat supply through international partnerships. In November, the Government Council, led by Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch, approved expanded import quotas and extended the suspension of import duties on cattle and sheep imports.

A Broader Context

Argentina’s growing prominence in the global meat market is underscored by its commitment to high sanitary standards, quality control measures, and advanced agricultural technologies. These factors were highlighted in recent discussions between Argentine and Brazilian agricultural authorities.

Morocco’s partnership with Argentina reflects its proactive approach to overcoming domestic challenges and securing a stable meat supply for its population. The collaboration underscores the importance of international trade in addressing global food security concerns.