Morocco and Spain team up to revitalize red meat sector

Moroccan and Spanish businessmen and officials met in Rabat on Tuesday to discuss ways to rehabilitate and modernize Morocco's red meat sector. The meeting was organized by the Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Services of the Rabat-Salé-Quneitra region.

Participants reviewed the strengths of both Morocco and Spain in the red meat industry, emphasizing the need to develop and strengthen the sector through investment in all its chains. This would help diversify supply, control prices, and meet consumer needs.

They also highlighted the importance of developing partnerships and cooperation between Moroccan and Spanish businesses to supply markets in both countries, boost bilateral trade, and mitigate the impact of recent droughts on local livestock.

Hassan Sakhi, President of the Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Services of the Rabat-Salé-Kenitra region, emphasized the economic, social, and nutritional significance of the red meat chain in Morocco. He noted its contribution to meeting consumer demands, creating jobs, and supplying the food and traditional industries.

José Frigolles, president of the Spanish Meat Production Association, stated that the meeting, attended by 11 Spanish companies, is part of the preparations to launch Spanish red meat exports to Morocco. He expressed gratitude for the Moroccan government's facilitation of these exports, which benefits both countries' economies.

Susana Barquin, a representative of the Ministry of Agriculture of Catalonia, highlighted the importance of strengthening trade relations with Morocco in the field of red meat production. Hassan Haddad, Vice President of the Council of Councillors, acknowledged Morocco's efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in red meat but noted the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and drought. He emphasized the importance of customs incentives and competitive pricing for Spanish imports.

The meeting aimed to strengthen economic relations, develop partnerships, and boost trade exchange between the two countries. It included bilateral meetings between business representatives and officials.

The meeting was attended by leading economic actors in the Spanish red meat sector, including representatives of leading companies in the sheep and cattle sectors in Catalonia, as well as actors in the food and agricultural industries and interested associations.