The OCP Group has assured that it is shipping fertilizers to the European Union containing less than 20 mg of cadmium per kilogram, significantly lower than the EU limit of 60 mg. However, a European official acknowledges that there is no systematic monitoring of imports to verify these levels. This topic has resurfaced following an investigation published recently by Boursorama, which focused on the Sidi Chennane mine near Khouribga. Cadmium, a toxic heavy metal, is naturally present in some phosphate deposits and can accumulate in soils and subsequently in the food chain through fertilizers.
In France, the discussion has intensified in recent months after fertilizers imported from Morocco were implicated in the heightened exposure of the population to this harmful metal. In June, French lawmakers passed a bill aimed at reducing this exposure, indicating a growing concern over the issue. Morocco plays a crucial role in this scenario, as it holds approximately 70% of the world’s known phosphate reserves, amounting to about 50 billion tons. OCP claims to have developed a process utilizing additives during the treatment of phosphoric acid to capture cadmium before the fertilizer production process begins.
Brussels Lacks Systematic Monitoring
The public group has been offering its European clients fertilizers with less than 20 mg of cadmium per kilogram since 2025, which is three times below the EU’s threshold of 60 mg/kg for phosphated fertilizers. The European market accounts for 17% of OCP's foreign sales, trailing behind Asia at 41% and the Americas at 31%. However, an official from the European Union, speaking to AFP, introduced a significant nuance: due to the lack of systematic monitoring of cadmium in imported fertilizers, Brussels cannot independently verify the levels claimed by producers. Nonetheless, he confirmed that a major Moroccan producer has informed the European Union of its investments aimed at ensuring fertilizers remain below the 20 mg/kg threshold.
OCP has not disclosed the amounts allocated for this adaptation. Faris Derrij, CEO of OCP Nutricrops, explained that the group has made substantial investments to adjust its production to meet regulations that vary by market. This evolution is also part of a broader strategy to upscale the quality of fertilizers produced in Morocco. The stakes extend beyond cadmium, as OCP also plans to establish a land storage facility by 2027 to reduce the discharge of phosphogypsum, a waste product from fertilizer production that contains heavy metals and acidic substances.
Finally, this issue arises against a backdrop of significant tensions in the global fertilizer market. Disruptions in the Middle East have increased the costs and complicated the supply of sulfur and ammonia. OCP acknowledges the impact on costs and timelines but maintains that it has sustained its production thanks to its stockpiles and Morocco's geographical advantages.
As reported by bladi.net.
