Morocco's Cannabis Boom: Nearly 3,000 Licenses Issued So Far This Year

The cannabis industry in Morocco is experiencing unprecedented growth after a few years of slow post-legalization activity. As reported by Morocco World News, nearly 3,000 cannabis-related licenses have been approved by the National Agency for the Regulation of Cannabis-Related Activities (ANRAC) since the beginning of 2024. This represents a significant increase from the total 609 issued throughout 2023.

More Licenses For Farmers And Operators In Targeted Areas

The government chose an area to set a cultivation surface target for this year: 2,400 hectares in the northern provinces of Taounate, Chefchaouen and Al Hoceïma. Of the 2,800 licenses granted in total, 2,600 have been awarded to farmers in these areas. This marks a substantial increase from the 430 permits granted in these regions last year, underscoring the growing acceptance and regulation of cannabis cultivation and production in Morocco.

In addition to cultivation, ANRAC will give out 200 licenses for various cannabis-related activities to 98 operators, including a pharmaceutical establishment, 23 cooperatives, 24 individuals and 50 companies. These permissions cover a spectrum of activities, including 59 for industrial purposes, one for medical transformation, 49 for commercialization, 39 for export, 24 for seed importation, 18 for transportation, and one for nursery establishment.

Expansion In Health And Cosmetic Products

In turn, 19 registration certificates for cannabis-derived products were issued by the Ministry of Health: nine for dietary supplements and 10 for cosmetic and personal hygiene products. More products are currently under review, with certifications expected upon meeting necessary standards.

Economic Potential Highlighted By Industry Leaders

Mohamed El Bouhmadi, president of the Moroccan Federation of Pharmaceutical Industry and Innovation, emphasized that the industry “could generate annual revenues of 4.2 [$428 million] to 6.3 billion dirhams [$641 million] by 2028, provided Morocco achieves a 10-15% share of the European market,” thus highlighting the economic potential of the cannabis sector.

Cover image made with AI