Morocco produced 4,082 tons of legal cannabis in 2024

Morocco reached a significant milestone in legal cannabis production in 2024, achieving 4,082 tons. This volume is significantly higher compared to the approximately 300 kilograms recorded in 2023, driven by the growth in the number of authorizations for farmers.


Sustainable growth and local variety
 

The National Agency for the Regulation of Cannabis-Related Activities (ANRAC) highlighted that the Moroccan Beldia variety accounted for 2,786 tons of the harvest. This species, with low THC content and lower water demand, has proven to be a sustainable choice adapted to the local climate. The remainder of the production used imported seeds.
 

Expansion of licenses and legalization
 

Since the legalization of cannabis cultivation for medicinal and industrial purposes in 2021, Morocco has been increasing support for farmers. In 2024, the number of licenses reached 3,056, a significant jump from the 430 issued in 2023.

ANRAC, established in 2022 to regulate the activity, attributes the increase in production to the strengthening of public policies and the growing interest of farmers in the initiative. By August 2024, the country had already issued 3,000 cannabis licenses, far more than the 609 issued in 2023.

Also in August of last year, the King of Morocco, Mohammed VI, granted clemency to 4,831 people who had been convicted, prosecuted, or were being sought for involvement in cases related to cannabis cultivation.


Economic impact and future of the sector
 

With the expansion, Morocco consolidates its position as one of the main players in the production of cannabis for medicinal and industrial purposes. Experts point out that the regulatory model could serve as an example for other nations interested in legalizing cannabis cultivation.

The continuation of growth will depend on investments in infrastructure and research, as well as the maintenance of sustainable practices, such as valuing local varieties. A 2022 study by Pharma 5 already predicted that Morocco could become one of the world leaders in medicinal cannabis, due to the integrated value chain, ensuring the necessary end-to-end process for the Moroccan cannabinoid industry.

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Sources: North Africa Post