‘Morocco can become gateway to Africa for Irish farmers’

MOROCCO can become a “trading gateway” to Sub-Saharan Africa for Irish farmers, the Moroccan Secretary of State for Rural Development has said.

Hammou Ouhelli, who led a visiting delegation to Dublin last week, told a number of state bodies that Morocco’s native red fruits, berries and oranges would also appeal to Irish consumers.

The trip follows a successful trade mission by Minister of Agriculture Michael Creed to Morocco last November aimed at strengthening ties between the countries.

“We have had some very interesting and useful meetings and I think we complement each other,” said Mr Ouhelli.

“Morocco has very strong linkage with African countries in the South Sahara and we can find some opportunities to do business between Ireland, Morocco and some other African countries.

“Morocco is becoming a platform and gateway to African markets; our companies are already there so for Irish businesses that want to go there, it will be very easy through us.”

The group, including senior government officials, farmers and leading representatives of Morocco’s agri-food industry, held high-level talks with Bord Bia, Teagasc and Enterprise Ireland on future opportunities. They voiced particular interest in imports from Ireland’s livestock and dairy sectors.

“We do not have enough beef to feed the people of Morocco and the breeding standard in Ireland is exceptional. I think there is a very promising relationship ahead,” said Mr Ouhelli.

According to Bord Bia, trade of Irish food and drink to the Kingdom of Morocco was valued at €15.6m in 2016, an increase of 20pc on 2015. Exports to the market are driven almost solely by the dairy category (98pc).