Paraguay aims to double its beef exports to Morocco as local demand rises due to a livestock shortage caused by drought. The country’s herd has declined significantly, leading to increased meat imports from various markets, including Australia for sheep. Morocco’s meat import bill has surged dramatically, underscoring its dependency on foreign sources to supplement local supply.
Paraguay is strategically aiming to increase its beef exports to Morocco, with plans to double the current shipments. Recently, Paraguayan meat exporters met with Moroccan buyers to discuss potential deals that could facilitate enhanced trade. The current exports sit at approximately 4,500 tons, and Paraguay is targeting to raise this figure in the coming year.
Morocco has faced significant agricultural challenges due to a six-year drought, affecting livestock numbers and increasing dependency on meat imports. The country’s Minister of Agriculture highlighted a stark decline in the national herd, stating that livestock numbers have decreased by 38% since 2016. Previously, Morocco slaughtered around 230,000 cattle, but this has reduced to only 150,000, prompting imports from countries like Romania and Argentina.
In addition to beef, Morocco is exploring the importation of sheep from Australia to prepare for the upcoming Eid al-Adha celebrations. The country’s meat import expenses surged to MAD 4.8 billion, an 83% rise from 2023 figures. By late November last year, livestock imports reached 110,000 tonnes, a substantial increase from 60,000 tonnes in 2023.
During the past Eid al-Adha festival, Morocco imported roughly 600,000 sheep for ritual sacrifice from various countries, including Spain and Romania. These imports highlight Morocco’s ongoing efforts to address local demand spikes for meat amidst declining domestic livestock numbers.
Paraguay is keen on boosting its beef export volumes to Morocco amid the latter’s livestock decline caused by prolonged drought. This situation has led Morocco to increasingly rely on meat imports to meet demand, especially with the looming Eid al-Adha festival. The collaboration between Paraguayan exporters and Moroccan buyers signals potential growth in bilateral trade despite the challenges faced by Morocco in its agricultural sector.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
