Morocco has taken a significant strategic step in upgrading its agricultural offerings. In Agadir, during the OECD meetings for fruits and vegetables, the Kingdom officially launched the Morocco Sustain Food Standard (MSFS): a national label dedicated to sustainability, developed by Morocco Foodex with support from the FAO, and co-financed by the EBRD and the European Union.
A label that structures Morocco’s sustainability ambition
The MSFS now provides a clear framework for agribusinesses aiming to adopt responsible practices. Three levels of certification—Commitment, Mastery, Excellence—define criteria covering governance, regulatory compliance, social responsibility, and environmental performance. For this first edition, 22 pilot companies from the citrus, fresh produce, processed products, and fishing sectors were recognized at an official ceremony.
A thoughtful approach to capacity building on the ground
The development of the label was based on a progressive roadmap:
- a national caravan deployed in six regions to raise awareness among professionals,
- a feasibility study conducted with 30 companies to identify operational needs,
- an international benchmark carried out with the International Trade Centre to compare the MSFS with 16 global standards,
- a comprehensive training program for auditors and businesses.
The objective is to provide Moroccan operators with a credible tool aligned with the expectations of international markets, particularly European ones, within the framework of the Green Deal.
A harmonization dynamic driven by Moroccan expertise
During the same period, the Kingdom hosted a series of technical and strategic meetings: the 19th Meeting of Heads of National Inspection Services of the OECD, the Harmonization Workshops for Compliance Checks, and the 84th Plenary Meeting of the OECD regime for fruits and vegetables. More than twenty countries were represented, alongside international institutions.
These workshops allowed inspectors and sector stakeholders to work on practical cases to enhance the harmonization of checks, ensure compliance with international standards, and better promote the quality of Made in Morocco products.
A clear vision of regional leadership
In the inaugural session, Minister of Agriculture Ahmed El Bouari emphasized that organizing these events reflects Morocco’s recognition for its advances in sustainability, quality, and agricultural competitiveness. He reaffirmed the Kingdom’s guiding principle: an agricultural model based on cooperation, transparency, and sustainability, aiming for a food future that is “safer, more sustainable, and more equitable.”
With the MSFS, Morocco positions itself not only as a reliable supplier for international markets but also as a leading African player in standardization, quality, and the sustainable transition of agricultural sectors.