Opening of the National Apple Fair in Midelt Under the Theme of Sustainability
Today, Wednesday, the fifth edition of the National Apple Fair commenced in Midelt, an annual highlight for stakeholders in the apple production chain in Morocco, featuring participation from over 175 exhibitors including cooperatives, producers, agricultural businesses, and public institutions.
The fair is organized under the high patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, supervised by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, and Water and Forests, in coordination with the Midelt Province and the SAPOM Association.
This year’s edition is held under the slogan: “Sustainable Management of Water Resources, the Foundation for Developing the Apple Chain in Mountainous Areas,” reflecting a growing concern for balancing improved agricultural productivity with water scarcity.
The fair covers an area of 5,500 square meters and features several thematic pavilions showcasing apple varieties, local products, agricultural machinery, production supplies, and innovation, along with a designated area for children aimed at raising awareness about environmental and agricultural issues.
The exhibition is not limited to commercial displays but also serves as a platform for dialogue and the exchange of experiences among researchers, cooperatives, associations, decision-makers, and private sector actors to disseminate knowledge and best practices in a region heavily reliant on apple production.
This edition highlights agricultural cooperatives and their role in enhancing the social economy in rural areas, as organizers aim to support small producers and encourage a more inclusive and sustainable agricultural model that can create local value and meet market demands.
The program includes a series of technical workshops and professional meetings on orchard modernization, water-efficient irrigation systems, and opportunities for exporting Moroccan apples.
The official opening ceremony was attended by Ridouane Araach, Secretary General of the Agriculture Sector, Abdewahab Fadel, Governor of Midelt Province, and Hero Abrou, President of the Drâa-Tafilalet Regional Council, alongside several elected officials, executives, and regional development institutions.
Regions such as Midelt, Ifrane, and Imilchil are among the most prominent apple production centers in Morocco; however, the increasing pressure on water resources necessitates a reevaluation of production methods.
In this context, the “SAPOM 2025” fair serves as a space for considering ways to achieve a balance between technical modernization and the preservation of ecosystems, making the apple chain a sustainable agricultural model for mountainous areas.
The fair will continue until October 19, featuring conferences and awards to recognize the best producers and innovative participants.
