The National Forum on the Decarbonization of Food Industries, held this Monday in Rabat, represents a decisive step in establishing a low-carbon trajectory for a vital pillar of the national economy.
Organized under the leadership of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce and the Ministry of Transition Energy and Sustainable Development, this major event brought together a diverse group of public, private, and financial stakeholders. The gathering, initiated by the Fédération Nationale de l’Agroalimentaire (FENAGRI), focused on the sustainable transformation of the Moroccan food sector.

This forum is a key part of FENAGRI’s ongoing efforts to support local industries as they navigate rising energy costs, increasing water scarcity, and stricter international market demands. Integrating climate-focused criteria into production chains is no longer optional but a necessity for global trade.

A cornerstone of the Moroccan economy

The food industry holds a strategic position in Morocco, generating nearly 191 billion dirhams in annual turnover. With approximately 2,600 companies operating across the country, the sector provides more than 206,000 direct jobs and contributes 44 billion dirhams to national exports. Furthermore, it satisfies about 77% of the domestic demand for processed food products.

However, this economic power comes with a significant environmental footprint. The industry consumes roughly 380,000 tons of oil equivalent each year, which accounts for nearly 20% of the total industrial energy use in Morocco. These figures highlight the urgent need for a structured and progressive decarbonization strategy tailored to the specific needs of different production branches.

Vision for 2040 and industrial competitiveness

To address these challenges, FENAGRI, with the support of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, has launched a national study to define a decarbonization roadmap for the food industry leading up to 2040. This initiative aims to identify primary emission sources, evaluate potential reduction methods, and establish the operational framework for a successful transition.

Discussions during the forum revealed a strong consensus: reducing carbon emissions should be viewed as a tool for economic competitiveness and industrial modernization rather than just a regulatory constraint. Improving energy performance and meeting climate standards will enhance the resilience of Moroccan firms and secure their access to international markets.

Abdelmounim El Eulj, President of FENAGRI, stated that decarbonization is an immediate priority that directly impacts the competitiveness, energy efficiency, and investment capacity of local businesses in the face of modern economic realities.

Ensuring an inclusive transition

The forum also emphasized the importance of coordinated action between the government, industry leaders, and financial institutions. A specific focus was placed on very small, small, and medium-sized enterprises (TPMEs), which are essential components of the national industrial fabric. Supporting these smaller players is vital for achieving a transition that is both inclusive and practical.

Participants highlighted the need for accessible funding, technical expertise, and bankable projects that cater to the realities of various food sectors. Following the event, FENAGRI confirmed its commitment to this long-term goal. Future steps will include monitoring the 2040 roadmap, hosting specialized workshops for different sub-sectors, and assisting member companies in implementing their own specific decarbonization paths.