Morocco’s agriculture and fisheries rebound as rainfall revives growth

Monday 01 June 2026 - 15:41

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco’s agriculture and fisheries rebound as rainfall revives growth

After years of persistent drought, Morocco’s primary sector is showing strong signs of recovery in 2026. Abundant rainfall and a sharp improvement in water resources have boosted agricultural production across the country, according to the latest economic outlook published by the Ministry of Economy and Finance.

The most striking indicator of this recovery is cereal production. Official estimates project the 2025-2026 harvest at nearly 90 million quintals, more than double the 43.1 million quintals recorded during the previous season. The increase reflects the decisive role of rainfall in Morocco’s agricultural performance. Favorable weather conditions improved yields across several farming regions and strengthened domestic food security while potentially reducing dependence on imports.

Tree crop production has also surged. Olive output is expected to reach a record two million tonnes in 2026, representing a 111% increase compared with the previous campaign. Citrus production is forecast at 1.9 million tonnes, up 25% year on year, while date production is expected to reach 160,000 tonnes, marking a 55% increase. These gains reflect broader improvements in growing conditions and could reinforce Morocco’s position in international agricultural markets.

The livestock sector is also benefiting from improved climatic conditions. After several difficult years marked by shrinking pastures and rising feed costs, the national herd is showing signs of recovery. Authorities attribute the improvement to a royal livestock restoration program, favorable rainfall, and increased births during the autumn and spring seasons. The national herd is now estimated at nearly 40 million head, a development expected to support livestock activities and gradually strengthen domestic supply.

Water availability has improved dramatically. As of May 18, 2026, Morocco’s dams were filled to 76% of capacity, storing nearly 12.9 billion cubic meters of water. During the same period a year earlier, the fill rate stood at only 40.1%. The increase represents a 92% surplus compared with the previous year and is expected to benefit agricultural irrigation, drinking water supplies, and several water-dependent economic sectors.

Despite stronger production, agricultural and agri-food exports have not followed the same trajectory. By the end of March 2026, exports totaled approximately 26.8 billion dirhams, down 2.3% from a year earlier. The decline was mainly driven by a 6.3% drop in exports of agricultural, forestry, and hunting products. However, food industry exports partially offset the decline, rising 4.4% after contracting during the previous year. The figures underline the fact that increased domestic output does not automatically translate into higher export revenues, which remain influenced by global demand and international market conditions.

Morocco’s fisheries sector has also returned to growth. After a weak first quarter, coastal and artisanal fishing activities recorded a strong rebound in April 2026. Landing volumes increased by 51.7% year on year, reversing a decline recorded during the same period in 2025. Pelagic fish landings rose 62.6%, cephalopods increased 39.1%, seaweed landings climbed 65.6%, crustaceans gained 21.1%, and shellfish volumes surged 250%.

The recovery also boosted commercial value. In April 2026, the value of fishery landings increased by 64.8% compared with a year earlier. Pelagic fish values rose 84.3%, white fish gained 34.5%, cephalopods advanced 96%, crustaceans increased 23%, seaweed rose 30%, and shellfish recorded a 354.5% jump. By the end of the first four months of the year, the overall value of landings had increased 5.3%.

The latest data point to a broad revival of Morocco’s primary sector. Improved rainfall has revived agricultural production, replenished water reserves, supported livestock recovery, and restored momentum in fisheries. While export challenges remain, the sector’s performance in 2026 signals renewed strength in a key pillar of Morocco’s economy, rural employment, and food security.