Morocco Imposes Ban on Slaughter of Female Sheep and Goats Until March 2026

Rabat – Morocco has officially implemented a ban on the slaughter of female sheep and goats, effective from March 19, 2025, until the end of March 2026. 

The Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Agriculture issued a joint circular to regional governors, provincial officials, and the Director General of the National Office for Food Safety to enforce this measure.

The circular explained that the ongoing consecutive droughts have severely impacted the national herd of sheep and goats, resulting in a 38% decrease in livestock numbers compared to 2016. 

Rising market prices and the cost of fodder have meanwhile forced many breeders to reduce their herds by slaughtering female animals intended for breeding, which poses a long-term threat to the sustainability of the livestock sector.

The primary goal of the ban is to better manage the development of livestock structures and to support efforts to rebuild the national herd.

The action plan also specifies that the ban will be enforced at national slaughterhouses, with exceptions made for animals deemed unfit for breeding, non-productive animals, or those with more than eight permanent teeth. Imported animals intended for fattening or slaughter are also exempt from the ban.

Minister of Agriculture Ahmed El Bawari emphasized that the decision is part of a broader national strategy aimed at restructuring the sector and addressing the challenges posed by climate change and economic factors. 

Authorities stressed the need for strict enforcement, in partnership with local and regional authorities, who will be responsible for educating rural communities about the importance of complying with the ban.

The veterinary services of the National Office for Food Safety will oversee monitoring and ensuring adherence to the regulations.

 The ban has been in effect at all approved slaughterhouses since last week, with efforts underway to extend its enforcement to informal slaughter locations. This initiative is aimed at reducing the uncontrolled exploitation of Morocco’s livestock resources.

Under the royal directives of King Mohammed VI, Morocco has officially canceled the Eid al-Adha ritual sacrifice of cattle due to the consecutive droughts and the resulting challenges that have negatively impacted the country’s agricultural seasons and economy over the past six years.