Stories from Morocco

Morocco expects to see results from efforts to end a seven-year drought starting this year. Wheat prices have reached their highest levels in nearly two years. The price increase is attributed to climate concerns rather than Middle East instability.

Satellite imagery shows changes in the landscape of central and northern Morocco due to recent rainfall. Data shows a trend of increasing dry years. The sector is struggling to resist drought conditions. This follows a period where agricultural productivity has been declining. Adriah noted an increasing frequency of dry years despite a relatively good year currently. The remarks were made in the context of rising biometry rates observed over the last 20 years. This precipitation is expected to benefit most sectors, though olive oil production faced delays as mud prevented tractor operations in fields. One large operator reported producing approximately 1,500 tons of oil this year despite these challenges. Long-term effects on olive trees remain a concern due to the weather conditions. Abundant rainfall in central and northern Morocco has significantly changed the landscape since January.

The US Secretary of State expressed a desire for a rapid solution to the Western Sahara conflict during a visit to Rabat on Wednesday. Washington recognized Moroccan sovereignty over the territory in 2020 in exchange for the normalization of relations between Morocco and Israel. The desert territory is located between Morocco, Algeria, and Mauritania. Landt described the duration of the conflict as unacceptable. The Under Secretary is also scheduled to meet Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune in Algiers on Tuesday. Lando stated the resolution cannot wait 50, 150, or 200 years. He made these remarks in Morocco following a two-day trip that included a stop in Algeria.

The 77th FIFA Congress will take place in Morocco in 2027 to hold presidential elections. Current FIFA President Gianni Infantino, an Italian, remains in his position.

The Chile Under-17 national football team played to a 0-0 draw in the South American tournament held in Morocco. Following a previous 8-1 victory against Bolivia, the team is scheduled to play Paraguay tomorrow. Coach Vanessa Arauz stated the match against Paraguay is a difficult game where the team could potentially secure qualification for the final stage with two matchdays remaining. The Chilean team enters the match against Paraguay following a 0-0 draw against Colombia in the tournament. The match will be played in Paraguay to determine qualification for the second phase of the Copa de la Liga. Chile defeated Paraguay with a score of two to zero in a Group A match. The victory places Chile and Argentina at seven points each after three games. Colombia currently holds five points following a recent win.

A factory located in the hinterland of Tangier port produces automotive parts, including components for BMW.

A Moroccan company is planning its first fundraising round for a gas pipeline project valued at $25 billion.

A British travel influencer has been reported missing in Morocco after failing to be seen for four days following their departure from a hotel.

An appeals court in Tetouan sentenced a rap singer and Justice and Development Party activist to eight months in prison.

Huzerin Laranushi stated that Morocco is expected to see an increase in production facilities similar to an auto parts factory near the Port of Tangier. The facility currently manufactures components for BMW.