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Fez – Morocco is set to temporarily suspend soft wheat imports this summer as improved rainfall boosts expectations for one of the country’s strongest grain harvests in years.
The decision comes after months of favorable weather helped revive agricultural production following a prolonged drought that heavily affected Morocco’s farming sector.
According to Reuters, Abdelkader Alaoui, head of the National Federation of Mills, noted that imports of soft wheat will be halted from June 1 until July 31 in order to prioritize the local harvest.
The move reflects growing optimism surrounding this year’s cereal season.
Moroccan authorities are expecting grain production, including soft wheat, to reach nearly nine million tons, almost double last season’s output.
Heavy rainfall earlier this year played a major role in improving crop conditions after seven consecutive years of drought and water shortages.
Over the past few years, Morocco significantly increased wheat imports to secure domestic supply and stabilize the market during difficult agricultural seasons.
The country became one of the European Union’s largest wheat buyers, particularly for French soft wheat exports.
Recent figures from France’s agricultural agency show that French soft wheat exports to Morocco reached 2.7 million tons between July and March, far above the average recorded during the same period over the previous five years.
Despite the expected recovery in local production, pressure remains visible at Moroccan ports.
Importers are currently facing shipping delays and congestion, especially at the Port of Casablanca, where around 300,000 tons of soft wheat are still waiting to be unloaded.
International forecasts also point toward a decline in Morocco’s wheat imports next season.
Estimates from the U.S. Department of Agriculture suggest that Morocco’s wheat imports could fall by nearly 40% during the 2026/2027 season as domestic production gradually recovers.
The temporary suspension highlights Morocco’s efforts to support local farmers while reducing dependence on foreign grain markets whenever national harvest conditions allow.
