27 The current state of Moroccan olive growing and prospects for its development TAWFIK EL ACHCHABI, EL MOSTAFA EL KABOUS AND ASMAA BEN MAÏMOUN Ministry of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, Rural Development, Water and Forests, Kingdom of Morocco Introduction The olive sector is of strategic importance to Moroccan agriculture, combining strong economic performance, climate resilience and the enhancement of agricultural land. For this reason, the olive grove and the Mediterranean way of life, olive oil embodies a legacy passed down from generation to generation. Archaeological evidence attests to a very ancient presence of the olive tree in North Africa, particularly particularly in the Rabat-Tétouan region has received special attention within the country’s agricultural strategies, notably the Green Morocco Plan (2008–2020)1 and the Green Generation (2020–2030)2 . This sector is deeply rooted in the traditions of our rural areas, constituting a key The olive sector in North Africa, particularly in Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria and Egypt, has seen sustained growth over the last two decades, driven by public policies, investment and international demand. long before the external influences often attributed to the Phoenicians. This antiquity is also suggested by linguistic and cultural elements specific to the region. In Roman times, olive growing underwent remarkable development and became an important source of income, and forms an integral part of the shared Mediterranean heritage. History and geographical distribution Morocco is a land of olive trees, where this ancient tree is deeply rooted in its culture, cuisine and traditions. A symbol of conviviality economic pillar, as evidenced by the numerous olive oil presses discovered at archaeological sites such as Volubilis, as well as in the regions of Lixus, Tangier and Salé. These historic areas largely correspond to today’s main olive-growing regions, illustrating the continuity of a tradition of craftsmanship and a heritage with deep roots. 1 https://www.ada.gov.ma/fr/la-strategie-plan-maroc-vert 2 https://www.ada.gov.ma/fr/nouvelle-strategie-du-secteur-agricole
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