Bank Al-Maghrib Forecasts Modest Grain Harvest Increase in Morocco

Bank Al-Maghrib expects Morocco’s grain harvest to reach 35 million quintals, a slight increase from last year, but below government targets. The agricultural sector is predicted to grow by 2.5%, although this is a revised estimate based on rainfall variability. Significant rain may aid farmers, but experts warn long-term water issues persist.

The Bank Al-Maghrib (BAM) of Morocco anticipates a modest rise in the nation’s grain harvest this year, forecasting an output of 35 million quintals. This figure marks an increase from last year’s yield of 31.2 million quintals but falls significantly short of the 55.1 million quintals from the previous season. The improvement highlights ongoing challenges compared to governmental projections.

At a recent press conference, BAM Governor Abdellatif Jouahri reported an anticipated 2.5% growth in the agricultural sector’s value, bolstered by the expected grain harvest as well as anticipated gains in non-grain agricultural output. However, BAM has adjusted its earlier harvest estimates downward, revising a December prediction of 50 million quintals due to reliance on favorable rainfall conditions.

The Moroccan government maintains a more optimistic stance, targeting a harvest of 70 million quintals in its finance law projections. In recent weeks, substantial rainfall and snowfall have improved reservoir levels, with current capacity at 35%, up from 26% during the same timeframe last year, though still behind the 68% rate of 2018.

This recent precipitation has boosted spirits among farmers cultivating autumn grains, such as wheat and barley. Experts acknowledge the positive impact of the rainfall but caution that it is insufficient to address Morocco’s enduring water crisis. “Morocco has always been a country of drought. This is structural, not something new,” remarked Mohammed-Said Karrouk, a climatology professor at Hassan II University, highlighting the disparity in rainfall distribution across regions.

In conclusion, while the Bank Al-Maghrib projects a slight increase in Morocco’s grain harvest, it remains below government expectations, addressing the ongoing agricultural challenges. Recent rainfall has brought temporary relief but has not resolved the fundamental issues of drought that plague the country. Continued attention to water resource management will be essential for the future of Moroccan agriculture.

Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com