Bank Al-Maghrib predicts a slight increase in Morocco’s grain harvest to 35 million quintals, lower than prior estimates and government projections. Improved rainfall has raised reservoir levels, fostering hope among farmers, yet experts warn of ongoing drought challenges.
Morocco’s central bank, Bank Al-Maghrib (BAM), anticipates a slight increase in the country’s grain harvest for the current year. The Governor of BAM, Abdellatif Jouahri, announced at a press conference that the expected yield is 35 million quintals, which represents an improvement over last year’s harvest of 31.2 million quintals, yet falls short of the 55.1 million quintals from the previous season.
Additionally, Bank Al-Maghrib forecasts a 2.5% increase in the agricultural sector’s added value this year, aided by the predicted grain harvest and an expected rise in non-grain agricultural production. However, BAM has revised earlier harvest estimates downward, initially predicting 50 million quintals in December, contingent on favorable rainfall conditions during winter months.
In contrast, the Moroccan government has set a more ambitious target of 70 million quintals in its financial projections. The country has experienced significant rainfall and snowfall recently, leading to improved dam reservoir levels, currently at a 35% filling rate, up from 26% this time last year, yet still well below the 68% level seen in 2018.
The recent precipitation has generated optimism among farmers, especially those cultivating autumn crops such as wheat, durum wheat, and barley. Despite the short-term relief from rainfall, experts caution that Morocco’s enduring water crisis remains unresolved. Mohammed-Said Karrouk, a climatology professor at Hassan II University of Casablanca, remarked on the structural nature of the country’s drought issues, emphasizing that rain distribution has been uneven, benefiting northern regions while central and southern areas continue to experience significant water shortages.
In summary, Bank Al-Maghrib forecasts a modest increase in Morocco’s grain harvest, projecting 35 million quintals for the year despite lower expectations than the government’s target. While recent rainfall has raised reservoir levels and encouraged farmers, ongoing drought conditions highlight the need for sustainable water management in Morocco. The central bank’s expectations reflect both the potential for agricultural growth and the challenges imposed by climate variability in the region.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
