On March 19, 2025, Labna Al-Saghiri, a parliamentarian from the Progress and Socialism group in Morocco's House of Representatives, directed a critical question to Mohamed Sadiki, the Minister of Fisheries, Maritime Fisheries, and Green Development. Her inquiry focused on the troubling rise in olive oil prices alongside significant exports to the European Union, which have raised concerns among citizens about the availability and affordability of this essential commodity.
In her written question, Al-Saghiri highlighted that recent spikes in olive oil prices have rendered the product increasingly inaccessible to many Moroccans. "This increase comes in a seasonal festive context driven by increased demand and speculation," she noted, addressing the rampant market speculation that undermines consumer interests.
The parliamentarian scrutinized the government's actions, asking what measures had been implemented to ensure that local markets are sufficiently supplied with olive oil at reasonable prices. Al-Saghiri’s concerns are underscored by conflicting market realities: while local prices soar, data from European sources indicate Morocco has exported around 841 tons of olive oil to the EU for the 2024/2025 season.
This contradiction between domestic scarcity and international sales raises valid questions about the government’s priorities in managing the olive oil sector. "Making this basic commodity inaccessible to a large segment of citizens," Al-Saghiri remarked, urging a reevaluation of export policies amid rising domestic demand and dwindling local supplies.
Amidst a challenging agricultural season characterized by drought and reduced production, the parliamentarian argued that the government should prioritize domestic needs over exports. In light of these conditions, Al-Saghiri demanded clarity from the Minister on how the Ministry planned to balance supply between local markets and export obligations, while maintaining competitive pricing for consumers.
Her pointed questioning reflects a broader worry among consumers. The pulse of public sentiment is of frustration; many families find themselves grappling with rising costs of basic necessities, particularly in light of recent reports highlighting the alarming increases in food prices across various sectors.
In her inquiry, Al-Saghiri also pushed for greater transparency in the price-setting and export processes. "What measures will the ministry take to control the markets and ensure transparency in the export operations?" she asked. This call for transparency aims to eliminate potential market manipulation that may harm Moroccan consumers.
The emerging debate over olive oil pricing exemplifies larger issues within the agricultural sector, where local consumers feel increasingly marginalized amid government decisions favoring export revenues over everyday accessibility. As such products are critical not only for culinary traditions but also for the economy, Al-Saghiri’s advocacy could shine a light on necessary policies that support both farmers and consumers alike.
As the situation continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the Ministry will respond to these inquiries. Stakeholders in the agricultural sector, including farmers and consumers, will be watching closely, hoping for solutions that ensure access to affordable olive oil while maintaining Morocco's position in international markets.
The recent parliamentary inquiry into olive oil pricing highlights a growing tension between domestic needs and the pressures of global trade. With the spotlight on the government’s export practices, questions about how best to serve Moroccan citizens amid changing economic conditions will undoubtedly persist.
In the plan moving forward, ensuring regulatory checks on olive oil exports while protecting local consumers will be essential. The balancing act between these competing interests will define the future of this crucial sector for Morocco.
