This represents a substantial leap from the 609 licenses granted in the previous year.
The surge in authorization translates to a cultivation area exceeding 2,552 hectares, compared to only 286 hectares in 2023. The majority of licenses (2,737) were issued to farmers in the northern regions of Taounate, Chefchaouen, and Al Hoceima.
ANRAC data reveals a shift towards industrial and medical applications of cannabis. Among the 168 operator licenses granted this year, 48 were designated for industrial purposes, while one focused on medical processing. Additionally, 45 licenses were issued for marketing and 39 for exports.
In 2023, 42 cannabis products derived from legal production were registered with the Ministry of Health. This year, the Ministry has already issued additional certificates for various cosmetic and food supplement products containing cannabis.
ANRAC reports that initial exports have begun, with one operator and a cooperative exporting cannabis products to Switzerland. Further exports are reportedly underway.
Established under Law 13-21, ANRAC is tasked with overseeing the entire legal cannabis industry in Morocco. This includes cultivation, production, processing, marketing, and international trade of cannabis products for medical, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications.
The Agency is responsible for maintaining cannabis stock control, adhering to international commitments, and supervising the authorization process for domestic and foreign operators. Additionally, ANRAC supports research into the medical, cosmetic, and industrial uses of cannabis while promoting sustainable practices within the industry.
RT/ac/fss/abj/APA