Seventh Edition of Moroccan Traditional Products Competition Celebrates Winners
The Moroccan Traditional Products Competition has just concluded its seventh edition, celebrating the remarkable diversity and quality of Moroccan local products. The awards ceremony took place on Saturday at the International Agricultural Fair in Meknes, organized by the Agricultural Development Agency, under the ongoing support of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development for producer groups and the promotion of their products.
According to reports from Hespress, the event saw the distribution of an impressive total of 455 medals, including 134 gold, 141 silver, and 180 bronze, during a formal gathering held alongside the 18th edition of the International Agricultural Fair in Morocco (SIAM). The ceremony was presided over by Ahmed Bouari, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, Water, and Forests, alongside officials from the Agricultural Development Agency.
Among the notable awards was a special recognition for innovation awarded to the "Argan Oil with Organic Saffron" from the "Amini" cooperative in the Marrakech-Safi region, highlighting their innovative approach. This initiative not only recognizes the efforts of local product groups but also showcases their expertise to the public through awards that affirm the quality and authenticity of their products.
Recognition of Excellence in Local Products
During the event, Hajouba Chakil, the Director of Local Products Marketing Development at the Agricultural Development Agency, announced that this edition featured participation from 1,375 products originating from various regions of the kingdom. After careful deliberation by the judging committee, seven excellence awards were granted, highlighting a variety of products including Argan oil from the "Bokhdo Akramod" cooperative (Marrakech-Safi), olive oil from the "Ageraswak" cooperative (Marrakech-Safi), thyme honey from the "Agdez" cooperative (Casablanca-Settat), and various other traditional products that reflect the rich agricultural heritage of the nation.
Since its inception in 2014, the Moroccan Traditional Products Competition has become a pivotal mechanism for valuing local products. Organizers affirm that it enhances the competitiveness of producers, supports cooperatives, and promotes offerings capable of meeting both national and international market demands.
In interviews with Hespress, award-winning exhibitors expressed that this recognition is not merely about winning awards but serves as a strong motivation to continue innovating and valuing the national agricultural heritage. Fatima Zahra Amini, president of the "Amini" cooperative, expressed her pride in receiving the innovation award for their "Argan Oil with Saffron," stating that it serves as a significant boost for the thirty members of the cooperative in their efforts to balance tradition with product development.
Similarly, Mohamed Skourai, head of the "Ageraswak" cooperative, emphasized that winning the olive oil quality award is a result of diligent work and strict adherence to legal standards. Meanwhile, Fatima Marzouq, president of a cooperative in the Fes-Meknes region, regarded the gold medal in vinegar (apple, cherry, and peach) categories as a prestigious honor and a recognition of their hard work, affirming the motivational value of such awards for producers.
In a forward-looking discussion, Omar Zaitouni, president of the "Demnat Forest Products" cooperative, shared the cooperative's ambition to focus on innovating the value of carob as a product that combines nutritional and medicinal properties. He mentioned that this recognition encourages the cooperative to elevate quality levels and contribute effectively to local development.
In conclusion, the Moroccan Traditional Products Competition not only serves as a platform to honor excellence in local craftsmanship but also fosters a spirit of innovation and sustainability within the agricultural sector, paving the way for a brighter future for Moroccan products.
As reported by hespress.com.
