Morocco's First Legal Cannabis Processing Plant Opens

The inauguration of Morocco's first legal cannabis processing plant marks a significant development in the country's emerging marijuana industry. Located in Taounate Province, the facility represents a $2 million investment and spans 3,000 square meters, featuring nurseries and extraction units. This initiative has created 25 permanent jobs and over 300 seasonal positions, contributing positively to the local economy. Mohamed El Guerrouj, director general of the National Agency for the Regulation of Cannabis-Related Activities (ANRAC), emphasized the importance of supporting both investors and farmers in this new sector. The Moroccan government has been proactive in establishing a regulatory framework for cannabis cultivation and processing. In the first half of the year, ANRAC approved around 3,000 cannabis-related licenses, a significant increase from the previous year. The government has designated 2,400 hectares in northern provinces for cannabis cultivation, with a majority of licenses awarded to local farmers. This regulatory push aims to ensure compliance and foster a responsible industry. Industry experts, including Mohamed El Bouhmadi, predict that the cannabis sector could generate substantial annual revenues, potentially reaching between $428 million and $641 million by 2028. This projection hinges on Morocco capturing a 10-15% share of the European market. The government’s efforts to legalize and regulate cannabis activities are seen as a strategic move to tap into this lucrative market. The establishment of the processing plant follows a royal pardon granted to thousands involved in cannabis-related activities, signaling a shift in the government's approach to cannabis. This initiative not only aims to boost the economy but also to create a sustainable and regulated cannabis industry in Morocco.