Morocco: Recent rains give hope for the next saffron campaign

Saffron, nicknamed Morocco’s “red gold,” is going through a critical period, symbolizing both the Kingdom’s agricultural wealth and the growing challenges imposed by climatic hazards. On the front line are producers, the true guardians of this sector. At the 15th International Saffron Festival, held from November 7 to 10 in Taliouine, Abderrahmane Jekha, president of a local cooperative, summed up the situation: “This year, we saw a significant drop in production. Conditions were difficult and the drought did not spare our crops. Fortunately, the recent rains give hope for the next campaign.” However, this hope is tinged with uncertainty. Producers, forced to sell their harvest at only 35 dirhams per gram – well below the recommended 60 dirhams – are struggling to maintain their income. “We want everyone to benefit from it, but it significantly reduces our income, which is already affected by low production,” says Leila Boumekliouine, a representative of a cooperative. Morocco, ...