Shifting Dynamics in Cannabis Production
The global cannabis landscape is undergoing significant changes, with Morocco's historical dominance in the resin production sector facing notable challenges. As highlighted in the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime's (UNODC) 2026 World Drug Report, Morocco's position as a leading source of cannabis resin has diminished, giving way to emerging producers like the United States and Canada. This shift is evident from the declining volume of cannabis resin seizures globally, which hit its lowest point since 2011 in 2024. The data indicates a transformation in the countries of origin for cannabis shipments, with fewer nations identifying Morocco as a primary source for seized cannabis over the years.
From 2010 to 2016, Morocco was recognized as a significant contributor to international cannabis trafficking; however, this trend reversed beginning in 2017. The number of countries reporting Morocco as the origin of seized cannabis has steadily decreased, culminating in 2024 with the lowest figures recorded during the study period. This decline in Morocco's influence has notably benefited the United States and Canada, which have increasingly reported their own cannabis exports in international trafficking discussions since 2018.
The Transformation of Moroccan Cannabis
Despite its reduced standing in the global market, Morocco's cannabis production has undergone a transformation. The UNODC report notes a significant increase in the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration of Moroccan resin, coupled with a decline in cannabidiol (CBD) levels. This change can be attributed to advancements in cultivation techniques and the selection of cannabis strains that are genetically richer in THC, practices that have been observed in regions like the Netherlands prior to their adoption in Morocco.
While the rise in THC levels raises health concerns due to higher potency, it also reflects a fundamental shift in Morocco's cannabis sector. The nation continues to be a major producer of cannabis resin, but its influence and market share in international cannabis supply chains have gradually eroded over the last decade. The evolving dynamics highlight the need for Morocco to adapt to the changing global cannabis market landscape if it hopes to regain its foothold.
As reported by yabiladi.com.
