Production of Citrus Fruits Soars by 64% in Beni Mellal Following Seven Years of Drought
The citrus sector in the Beni Mellal-Khénifra region has witnessed a remarkable improvement in production during the current agricultural season, following years of decline due to consecutive droughts, rekindling hopes for a resurgence in this vital industry.
It’s anticipated that citrus production will reach approximately 307,000 tons in the 2025-2026 agricultural season, compared to 187,000 tons in the previous season, marking an increase of nearly 64%.
Assem Khaled, head of the agricultural development division at the regional office for agricultural investment in Tadla-Azilal, attributes this improvement primarily to better climatic conditions after seven consecutive years of drought that directly impacted cultivated areas and production levels in the region.
He noted that the citrus sector is one of the most significant agricultural production chains in the region, contributing around 20% of the nation’s citrus output and nearly 10% of the kingdom’s exports, while also providing over 2.5 million workdays annually.
The official highlighted that this sector received special attention in the regional agricultural plan, under the Green Morocco and the Green Generation initiatives, aimed at enhancing competitiveness, increasing yields, and ensuring sustainability.
Currently, citrus cultivation covers more than 17,480 hectares, more than 16,443 hectares of which are productive, translating to 94% of the total cultivated area.
The region’s farms grow 36 varieties of citrus, including Clementine, Washington Navel, Maroc Late, Sidi Aissa, and the locally known Nadorcot, known as Afourar.
In terms of water resource management, the region has made significant strides in promoting drip irrigation techniques, with approximately 94% of the citrus-planted areas equipped with water-efficient irrigation systems.
Regarding the valorization of production, Beni Mellal-Khénifra has five packing units for citrus, with an overall processing capacity of 210,000 tons annually, enhancing added value and facilitating access to both national and international markets.
These indicators reflect the positive dynamics of the citrus sector in the region, amidst improved climatic conditions and continued support programs, bolstering farmers’ resilience and consolidating Beni Mellal-Khénifra’s status as a strategic national agricultural hub.
