Paraguay intends to double its beef exports to Morocco, currently at 4,500 tons, amidst Morocco’s livestock crisis caused by drought. The country has seen a 38% reduction in its cattle herd since 2016 and is increasing meat imports from various nations, including sheep from Australia for Eid al-Adha. November 2023 imports soared to 110,000 tonnes, indicating soaring demand and reliance on external markets.
Paraguay aims to significantly increase its beef exports to the Moroccan market, where demand is on the rise due to livestock shortages. Meat exporters from Paraguay recently met with Moroccan buyers to forge new trade agreements aimed at boosting beef shipments to Morocco, which currently stands at 4,500 tons annually. The goal is to double this figure in the upcoming year.
Morocco is experiencing a major agricultural impact from prolonged drought conditions, facing a livestock reduction of 38% since 2016. The Minister of Agriculture, Ahmed Bouari, reported that the country’s cattle slaughter numbers have declined from 230,000 to 150,000, prompting a shift towards meat and cattle imports from various sources, including Romania and Argentina.
In response to the livestock crisis, Morocco is also considering importing sheep from Australia in preparation for the upcoming Eid al-Adha festival. This shift is part of a broader strategy to manage the increased demand for meat amidst declining local livestock populations. Morocco’s import expenditure on livestock has risen significantly, indicating a growing reliance on foreign markets to meet consumer needs.
As of November of the previous year, Morocco’s livestock imports had surged to 110,000 tonnes, excluding VAT and customs duties, a drastic increase compared to the 60,000 tonnes imported in 2023. Notably, during the last Eid al-Adha celebration, Morocco imported approximately 600,000 sheep from Spain and Romania to accommodate the demand for sacrificial animals.
In summary, Paraguay is strategically positioning itself to capitalize on Morocco’s growing beef demand amid severe local livestock deficits. The ongoing drought has led to decreased cattle populations in Morocco, resulting in increased meat imports from various countries. The collaboration between Paraguay and Morocco represents a potential solution to the livestock shortage, reflecting a significant shift in import strategies as Morocco aims to secure adequate meat supply.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
