The recent rainfall across the Casablanca-Settat region and the country as a whole has come as a welcome relief for the agricultural sector. After several seasons plagued by water shortages, precipitation levels recorded up to March 12 have reached an impressive 209 mm—marking a 53% increase compared to the same period last year. This surge in rainfall has reignited hope among farmers and suggests a promising season ahead.
With 756,425 hectares of cultivated land, Casablanca-Settat plays a pivotal role in national agriculture. Cereal crops dominate the region, covering 385,037 hectares, followed by fodder crops, legumes, winter and autumn vegetables, and sugar beets. Thanks to these recent rains, these crops are thriving under optimal conditions, raising expectations for a much-improved harvest compared to previous years.
The benefits of this rainfall extend beyond the immediate boost to crops. Water reserves in reservoirs and groundwater tables are replenishing, ensuring essential resources for the months ahead. If this trend continues, conditions will be even more favorable for spring crops such as corn and chickpeas, whose planting areas are expected to expand in an effort to compensate for drought-related losses in certain regions.
All agricultural sectors are feeling the positive impact. Spring vegetable crops are growing more vigorously, temporarily reducing irrigation costs and easing pressure on water resources. This could also have a stabilizing effect on vegetable prices, providing some relief for consumers.
Livestock farming is also seeing renewed vitality. The abundance of natural pastureland is reducing reliance on expensive animal feed, offering financial relief to farmers and potentially affecting red meat prices. At the same time, fruit trees—particularly olive trees—are benefiting from this influx of water, emerging from dormancy in better condition. This suggests a stronger olive harvest this season after a difficult year marked by a significant decline in production.
In the sugar industry, abundant rainfall is easing the demand for irrigation, paving the way for a higher sugar beet yield. With reduced pressure on groundwater reserves, these resources have a better chance to regenerate, which is crucial for the sustainability of irrigated crops.
The livestock sector is also poised for recovery. As feed costs drop, efforts to rebuild the national herd could accelerate, helping to stabilize the red meat market in the coming months.
To build on this positive momentum, regional authorities have launched an intensive agricultural support program aimed at boosting production and assisting farmers. The plan includes:
330,000 quintals of subsidized certified seeds, available at 58 sales points across the region.
80,000 quintals of cereal-specific fertilizers to ensure optimal crop nutrition.
Subsidies for potato, tomato, and onion seeds to stimulate vegetable production.
This initiative focuses on providing agricultural inputs at reasonable costs, enabling farmers to maximize yields and prepare effectively for the next planting season.
If the rains persist in the coming weeks, the agricultural outlook for Casablanca-Settat will continue to improve. Strengthening water reserves and creating optimal conditions for both crops and livestock could mark the beginning of an agricultural recovery after years of drought.
However, careful management of this vital resource remains crucial. Efficient water use, particularly in irrigation and groundwater extraction, will be key to ensuring long-term resilience in the face of climate uncertainties.
Farmers and authorities must work hand in hand to consolidate these gains and prepare for the future, hoping this season signals the start of a more favorable cycle for Moroccan agriculture.
