Morocco’s date production is expected to hit a record 160,000 tonnes in the 2025–2026 agricultural season—a 55% jump from the previous year. The announcement was made by Agriculture Minister Ahmed El Bouari during the opening of the 14th International Date Palm Exhibition in Erfoud, signaling a milestone year for one of the country’s most emblematic crops.
This sharp increase is largely attributed to ideal weather conditions across key growing regions, particularly Drâa-Tafilalet, which accounts for a dominant 76% of Morocco’s date output. The regions of Souss-Massa and the Oriental region also play a role, each contributing about 11% to the national total.
According to the ministry, mild winter temperatures followed by spring rainfall created optimal conditions for flowering and fruit maturation. The robust outlook for this year’s harvest further underscores the resilience of Morocco’s date industry, even as the country continues to face chronic water shortages.
The sector has been buoyed by two major agricultural strategies: the Green Morocco Plan and the ongoing Generation Green 2020–2030 initiative. Thanks to these programs, Morocco’s date production has nearly doubled in less than two decades, rising from just over 90,000 tonnes in 2008 to 160,000 tonnes projected for 2025.
Beyond its agricultural importance, date cultivation plays a vital role in Morocco’s rural economy and social fabric. It generates up to 2 billion dirhams in annual revenue and provides roughly 3.6 million workdays each year. Nearly two million people—many in vulnerable oasis communities—rely directly or indirectly on this sector for their livelihoods.
The date palm also holds significant environmental value. Its cultivation is crucial in the fight against desertification and in preserving fragile oasis ecosystems, acting as a natural barrier in regions increasingly threatened by climate change.
Running until November 2, the International Date Palm Exhibition has brought together around 230 exhibitors and is expected to draw over 90,000 visitors. Held under the High Patronage of King Mohammed VI, the event offers a vital platform for industry professionals and showcases traditional knowledge deeply rooted in Morocco’s oasis culture.
