The Ministry of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, Rural Development and Water and Forests hosted a high-level conference in Meknès on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. Held during the 18th edition of the International Agriculture Show in Morocco (SIAM), the event focused on “Animal production and transformation of food systems.”
A Strategic Dialogue on Agricultural Futures
The gathering served as a strategic platform for dialogue, bringing together high-level political figures, decision-makers, and officials from international organizations. The event too included contributions from researchers, experts, and industry professionals.
The opening session was led by M. Ahmed El Bouari, Minister of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, Rural Development and Water and Forests. He was joined by international counterparts, including M. José Manuel Fernandes of Portugal, Mme Annie Genevard of France, and M. Bruno Nabagne Kone of Côte d’Ivoire.
Addressing Global Pressures and Resilience
The conference addressed the urgent need to transform animal production systems amidst several global challenges. These include the impacts of climate change, increasing pressure on natural resources, and market volatility.
Minister Ahmed El Bouari noted that the initiative aligns with the “Generation Green 2020-2030” strategy. This framework prioritizes resilience, sustainability, and the valuation of human capital within agricultural development.
Priorities for Sector Transformation
The event was structured around two primary panels. The first focused on the resilience of animal production systems, while the second examined global consumption trends and the determinants of meat markets.
Participants identified several key levers to drive the sector forward, including:
- The development of sustainable animal feed.
- Modernization of farming operations and genetic improvement.
- Strengthening the structuring of production chains.
- Adapting to evolving consumer expectations.
Potential Future Trajectories
The outcomes of the conference suggest that the sector may move toward a more integrated and concerted approach to food systems. This could lead to the creation of more inclusive and sustainable agricultural models.
As the SIAM continues to serve as an international reference platform, future trajectories for food systems are likely to be shaped by the collaborative efforts and shared expertise highlighted during these sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary objective of the conference?
The conference aimed to foster reflection on the transformation of animal production systems to address challenges like climate change, resource pressure, and evolving consumption patterns.
How does animal production contribute to the economy?
It represents nearly 35% of the agricultural GDP, supports approximately 1.2 million breeders, and generates about 135 million work-days per year.
Which international ministers participated in the event?
The event featured interventions from M. José Manuel Fernandes (Portugal), Mme Annie Genevard (France), and M. Bruno Nabagne Kone (Côte d’Ivoire).
How can the balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability be best achieved in animal production?
