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Morocco secures 3.5 million tons of French wheat as drought strains local production
Morocco is preparing to import 3.5 million metric tons of wheat from France to meet its domestic demand for the 2025–2026 season, amid persistent drought and rising temperatures that continue to undermine the country’s agricultural output.
Growing dependence on imports
Philippe Heusele, international head at French grain industry group Intercereals, confirmed that Morocco has turned to French suppliers to sustain its wheat reserves. Projections suggest that the North African nation may import as much as 5.5 million tons of soft wheat between June 2025 and May 2026.
The decision highlights Morocco’s increasing reliance on foreign grain as rainfall shortages persist. October, which typically marks the beginning of the rainy season, has instead brought higher-than-normal temperatures reaching 27°C in several provinces, including the capital, Rabat.
Climate pressure and food security measures
Morocco’s agricultural sector has been hit by consecutive dry seasons lasting more than six years. Experts note that the country aims to secure sufficient wheat stocks for the next three to five months, taking advantage of lower global grain prices to stabilize domestic supply.
Despite the challenges, the government maintains that agricultural performance is showing signs of recovery. Officials forecast a 5.1% growth rate in the sector this year, reversing last season’s 4% contraction. In May, Minister of Agriculture Ahmed Bouari projected cereal production at 44 quintals, marking a 41% rise compared to the previous year.
Policy responses to sustain resilience
In response to the prolonged drought, Morocco implemented several policy measures earlier this year. Among them was the cancellation of Eid Al Adha sacrifice rites, a symbolic yet significant move intended to preserve the livestock population. His Majesty King Mohammed VI also ordered a ban on the slaughter of female sheep and goats to strengthen herd reproduction.
Between January and July 2025, Morocco imported 5.847 million tons of cereals, down from 6.57 million tons over the same period last year, according to the National Federation of Cereal and Vegetable Traders. The federation attributed this decline to strategic purchasing decisions in light of ample global supply and ongoing efforts to reinforce national reserves.
Economic implications
The World Bank reported that Morocco’s overall GDP growth slowed to 3.2% due to the drought’s economic impact. However, non-agricultural sectors demonstrated resilience, recording a 3.8% growth rate, suggesting that diversification efforts are helping cushion the broader economy against climate shocks.
Morocco’s ongoing strategy to balance import dependence with domestic production growth underscores its determination to maintain food security despite environmental pressures.
