Morocco’s participation in the International Agriculture Show (SIA) in Paris, where the Kingdom was the guest of honor, was a resounding success, with a “strong turnout” at the national pavilion, where the diversity and excellence of local products captivated visitors and professionals alike.
The Moroccan pavilion, organized under the supervision of the Agricultural Development Agency (ADA), featured around 30 exhibitors representing 76 cooperatives, involving nearly 2,000 small farmers from across the Kingdom. The “exceptional” visibility of the Moroccan pavilion at the show (February 22 to March 2) helped “strengthen the presence of Moroccan local products in French and European markets, while opening new commercial prospects for producers and exporters,” said Mahjouba Chkail, Director of Development and Marketing of Local Products at ADA, in a statement to MAP.
Chkail added that the “strong turnout of visitors, who were impressed by the authenticity and rich flavors of these products, boosts commercial dynamics and facilitates the establishment of sustainable partnerships with European distributors and importers.”
She noted that the national pavilion highlights the “diversity” and “quality” of Moroccan products, particularly in the 16 most sought-after sectors, including olive oil, argan oil, dates, saffron, spices, and other local products favored by European consumers.
She explained that the economic impact of Morocco’s participation is also reflected in the growing interest from international operators. “More than 90 commercial partners are in discussions with Moroccan exhibitors to conclude export agreements to the French market,” Chkail stated.
She emphasized that “this enthusiasm confirms the potential of Moroccan local products and their competitiveness on the international stage, thereby contributing to the enhancement of local sectors and the improvement of small farmers’ incomes.”
The national pavilion (476 square meters) serves as a true showcase of the richness and diversity of Moroccan agriculture. It was inaugurated by Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch during his attendance at the official opening of the International Agriculture Show, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron.
The Moroccan pavilion also saw visits from several prominent French figures, including French Prime Minister François Bayrou, Minister Delegate for Gender Equality and the Fight against Discrimination Aurore Bergé, and President of the Île-de-France Region Valérie Pécresse.
The pavilion also attracted a large number of members of the Moroccan community residing in France.
The recognition of Morocco at the International Agriculture Show in Paris coincides with an upcoming event: France will, in turn, be the guest of honor at the International Agriculture Show in Morocco (SIAM) in Meknes (April 21-27).