Celebrating Excellence in Moroccan Local Products
The seventh edition of the "Moroccan Products Competition" took center stage on Saturday at the International Agricultural Fair in Meknes, showcasing the exceptional and diverse range of Moroccan local products. Organized by the Agricultural Development Agency, this event reflects the continuous support provided by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to producer groups, emphasizing the importance of promoting and valuing their products.
During this prestigious ceremony, a total of 455 medals were awarded, including 134 gold, 141 silver, and 180 bronze. This official event was part of the 18th International Agricultural Fair of Morocco (SIAM) and was presided over by Ahmed Bouari, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, and Water and Forests, alongside officials from the Agricultural Development Agency.
A special innovation award was presented to the "Amine" cooperative from the Marrakech-Safi region for their "Argan Oil with Organic Saffron", recognizing their innovative approach to product development.
Highlighting the Richness of Moroccan Agricultural Heritage
This initiative not only acknowledges the efforts of local producers but also elevates their expertise to public attention through awards that affirm the quality and authenticity of their products. As stated by Mahjouba Shakil, Director of Local Products Marketing Development at the Agricultural Development Agency, this edition saw the participation of 1,375 products from various regions across the country.
After careful deliberation by the judging committee, seven excellence awards were granted, which included Argan oil from the "Boukhdo Akrmoud" cooperative, olive oil from the "Ageriswak" cooperative, thyme honey from the "Agdez" cooperative, Koda cheese from the "Alfa" cooperative, apple cider vinegar from the "Diyati" cooperative, Medjool dates from the economic interest group "Difa Ziz", and six-grain couscous from the "Tiadirte" cooperative. These awards reflect the richness of Morocco's agricultural heritage.
Launched in 2014 by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, and Water and Forests, the Moroccan Products Competition has become an essential mechanism for enhancing local products, contributing to the competitiveness of producers, supporting cooperatives, and promoting offerings that meet the demands of both national and international markets.
In interviews with Hespress, the award-winning exhibitors expressed that this recognition is more than just awards; it serves as a motivation to continue innovating and valuing Morocco's agricultural heritage. Fatima Zahra Amini, president of the "Amine" cooperative, expressed pride in receiving the innovation award for their "Argan Oil with Saffron", stating that this recognition empowers the thirty female members in the Essaouira region to balance tradition with product development while thanking the Ministry of Agriculture and the Agricultural Development Agency for their support.
Mohamed Skourai, president of the "Ageriswak" cooperative, highlighted that winning the quality award for olive oil is a testament to their diligent work and complete adherence to legal standards. Meanwhile, Fatima Marzouk, president of a cooperative in the Fes-Meknes region, shared that winning a gold medal for their vinegar varieties is a tremendous honor and recognition for their hard work, underscoring the motivational value of such accolades.
In a forward-looking perspective, Omar Zeitouni, president of the "Damenate Forest Products" cooperative, expressed aspirations to focus on innovative approaches to valorizing carob as a product that combines nutritional and medicinal properties. This recognition encourages their cooperative to enhance quality and contribute effectively to local development, with carob being viewed as a future product that necessitates further research and development.
In conclusion, the Moroccan Products Competition not only highlights the excellence of local produce but also reinforces the commitment of producers to quality and innovation, paving the way for a sustainable future in Morocco's agricultural sector.
As reported by hespress.com.
