In a significant milestone for Morocco’s agricultural and industrial sectors, Minister of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, Rural Development, and Water and Forests, Ahmed El Bouari, inaugurated a cutting-edge production line for processing seaweed and producing agar-agar in Kénitra on Wednesday. The project, led by Setexam, is being hailed as a game-changer in reducing chemical pesticide usage while boosting Morocco’s presence in global markets.
The facility represents an investment of 60 million dirhams (approximately $6 million) and was launched in the presence of Zakia Driouich, Secretary of State in charge of Maritime Fisheries. The project introduces innovative solutions that align with Morocco’s commitment to sustainable and organic agriculture.
During the inauguration, Zakia Driouich highlighted the pivotal role of this new facility. It is the only plant in Morocco producing agar-agar, a versatile substance widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Driouich further noted that Morocco ranks as the third-largest producer of agar-agar in the world, following China and Spain.
The plant’s advanced technologies allow for the production of foliar fertilizers tailored for organic farming, presenting an alternative to chemical pesticides. This not only addresses sustainability challenges but also solidifies Morocco’s reputation as a leader in environmentally conscious agricultural practices.
Rachid Lebbar, Director of Setexam, emphasized the versatility and importance of agar-agar, which is also used in the production of antibiotics. Described as a high-quality product, Moroccan agar-agar is exported globally, reaching markets in Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and France, among others.
This expansion of Setexam’s facilities marks a significant boost to the local and national economy. The plant generates 300 on-site jobs and supports an additional 10,000 seaweed harvesters, underscoring its role in creating employment and strengthening the industrial fabric of the region.
As one of the world’s leading producers of agar-agar, Setexam has carved out a prominent position in international markets. The company’s efforts contribute not only to Morocco’s industrial growth but also to its standing as a global player in environmentally sustainable innovation.
This new production line in Kénitra is more than just an industrial development—it represents Morocco’s ability to balance economic growth, environmental responsibility, and international competitiveness.
