Morocco Hosts the Arab Fertilizer Conference in Ben Guerir to Discuss Innovation and Food Security
In Ben Guerir, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University is hosting the 37th annual conference and exhibition on fertilizer production, organized by the Arab Fertilizer Association in partnership with the OCP Group, with participation from over 600 experts and officials from around 50 countries. This international event is held under the theme “Emerging Technologies in Fertilizer Production: Balancing Productivity and Environmental Responsibility,” amidst increasing pressures to achieve global food security while maintaining ecological balance.
In his opening speech, Hicham El Habti, the university president, emphasized that the fertilizer sector feeds half of the world’s population but faces dual challenges: meeting demographic growth and reducing emissions. He stressed that innovation has become essential. He noted the university’s collaboration with the OCP Group to develop a new generation of smart, eco-friendly fertilizers, highlighting Africa’s agricultural potential and the energy of its youth.
Youssef El Bari, CEO of OCP Nutricrops, affirmed that the Arab region is rich in resources that make it a key player in the fertilizer industry. He added that the shift toward sustainable agriculture requires comprehensive collaboration and innovative solutions that place farmers at the heart of the strategy. He recognized the link between climate change and food security, advocating for a holistic approach to enhance the resilience of the sector.
Abdelwahab Rwad, Vice President of the Arab Fertilizer Association, emphasized the importance of this meeting in supporting the standing of the Arab industry and enhancing international coordination to meet the growing global food demand, pointing out that innovation and technology are fundamental pillars for the future of the sector.
The event, which lasts three days, features an international exhibition with 32 exhibitors from various countries and also includes the awarding of companies and researchers by the Arab Fertilizer Association in recognition of their initiatives in sustainability and applied research.
