The National Apple Exhibition in Morocco (SAPOM) opened its doors this Thursday, October 6 in the city of Midelt. Based on the theme “The apple sector: a lever for employment and a pillar of the economy of mountain areas”, this exhibition is intended to be a space for meetings and exchanges between the various players and those responsible for the cultivation, production, development and marketing of apples.
Organised by the SAPOM association, in partnership with the province of Midelt, under the aegis of the Ministry of Agriculture, Maritime Fishing, Rural Development and Water and Forests, this exhibition is a showcase of progress in the development of the apple tree sector. This is an unprecedented opportunity for the region’s tree growers to celebrate their apples through a plethora of economic, cultural, social and scientific activities. The Drâa-Tafilalet region is the leader in apple growing and accounts for more than half of the national production. According to Redouane Arrach, Secretary General of the Department of Agriculture, this is a region where the apple tree has a distinctive reputation that classifies it as a local product with the protected geographical indication ” Midelt apple “.
The apple tree sector in Morocco
On this occasion, Redouane Arrach pointed out that the cultivation of apple trees has expanded greatly in terms of surface area and production in Morocco in recent years. And that national production of this fruit is estimated this year at between 800,000 and one million tonnes. “This vigorous development is the result of measures adopted since 2008 within the framework of the Green Morocco Plan,” he explained.
Thus, to consolidate these achievements, the strategy adopted falls within the framework of “Generation Green 2020-2030”. An action plan that prioritises the strengthening of human skills and logistical infrastructures for the development and marketing of the apple.
In addition, the 2022 edition of SAPOM brings together 125 exhibitors to exchange ideas, present their products and make themselves known. More than 120 stands were set up to illustrate and promote the various apple products and their derivatives. It is an opportunity which, in addition, highlights the tourist, cultural and heritage potential of this region, as well as the other local products of the province.
Also, it should be noted that the apple tree is the third most cultivated fruit species in the Drâa-Tafilalet region after the date palm and the olive tree. From a socio-economic point of view, this sector constitutes a source of income for more than 60,000 inhabitants and allows the creation of 2.2 million working days annually.
