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Potato acreage barely remains stable in Larache

Potato cultivation is declining in the Larache region of northwest Morocco, due to climatic conditions and the attractiveness of other, more profitable crops. Local potato grower Oussama Didouch shares his thoughts on the season.

The grower says, "We had to delay planting this season because of the difficult weather conditions, hoping to avoid frost. So we planted in November and expect to harvest around mid-February. Growers who remain in the sector in our region are becoming increasingly rare, but newcomers help maintain a stable, yet low acreage."

The potato sector in the region is facing declining yields, while other crops such as early vegetables, soft fruit, or avocados are much more rewarding for growers. Didouch says, "We continue to work thanks to subsidies on potato production. The area remains stable thanks to these subsidies, but the growers planting potatoes this season are newcomers who had no production in previous years. Those who were active have chosen other crops for most of them."

In 2023, the Moroccan government announced for the first time subsidies for the production of strategic crops for the local market, including potatoes. The subsidies amount to 8,000-15,000 MAD per hectare for potatoes, along with 580 million MAD to subsidize certified potato seeds, and 2.3 billion MAD directed towards fertilizer subsidies.

The impact on local market supply remains limited, as the region accounts for only a small share of national production. Didouch says, "It's the Meknes region that's most important in the production of potatoes and onions."

"For the few remaining potato growers in Larache, the season is shaping up well. We are coping with climatic difficulties thanks to sustainable practices, and we are in contact with a French fries factory interested in our crops, in addition to the local potato market," Didouch concludes.

For more information:
Oussama Didouch
Chhira Farm
Tel: +212687078008
Email: [email protected]