A recent report has revealed that the cost of vegetables in Moroccan markets is nearly equivalent to that of some French supermarkets, even though the minimum wage in Morocco is five times lower. This has led to growing concerns regarding the country’s agricultural model, which heavily relies on exports. The current record inflation, which has spiked anger and frustration among the population, is further exacerbating the issue.
The inflation rate surged by 10.1% year-on-year in February, with food products experiencing a sharp increase of 20.1%, as per the High Commission for Planning (HCP) report. This alarming trend is now raising serious questions about the country’s economic stability and the government’s ability to address the issue effectively.
At the start of February, the Moroccan government decided to suspend the export of certain products, including tomatoes, to meet the demands of the local market. However, this move was met with opposition from professional associations, who called on Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch to reconsider the decision.
Ahmed Lahlimi, the head of the High Commission for Planning (HCP), believes that this crisis raises serious concerns about the sustainability of the Moroccan agricultural model.