Rabat, Morocco – Morocco is facing a growing food waste crisis, with citizens discarding an average of 113 kilograms of food per year, according to a recent report by the Economic, Social and Environmental Council (CESE). The findings have prompted the CESE to call for a national action plan to address the issue, which impacts the country’s economy, environment, and food security.
The CESE highlighted that approximately 4.2 million tons of food were wasted in 2022 alone. This substantial loss represents a significant strain on the nation’s resources, including over 1.6 billion cubic meters of water annually used to produce food that is ultimately not consumed.
During a meeting on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, CESE President Abdelkader Amara emphasized the increasing importance of tackling food loss and waste throughout the entire food supply chain. “The choice of the Council to study this question stems from the growing economic, social and environmental importance of food losses and waste,” Amara stated.
The report identifies that losses occur at every stage, from production to consumption. Certain agricultural sectors, including fruits, vegetables, and cereals, experience losses between 20% and 40% during production, harvesting, storage, and transportation. The CESE also noted data collected through the “Ouchariko” platform, indicating widespread waste among citizens.
To combat the problem, the CESE is recommending the adoption of an anti-waste law, the creation of a national observatory to monitor food loss and waste, improvements to storage and transportation infrastructure, and the promotion of shorter supply chains and food donations. The council believes integrating waste reduction into a national sustainable food strategy is crucial for strengthening food sovereignty and security, preserving natural resources, and building a more resilient food system.
The call for action underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to address food waste in Morocco, aligning consumption patterns with sustainable practices and bolstering the country’s ability to withstand future crises. This move highlights the growing global concern over food waste and its multifaceted impacts.
