SIAM in Meknès: Animal Feed, a Key Factor for the Viability of Livestock Farming

Enhancing Animal Husbandry: Insights from the International Agriculture Show in Morocco

During a conference held Wednesday in Meknès as part of the International Agriculture Show in Morocco (SIAM), institutional leaders and stakeholders in the livestock sectors emphasized that the availability of animal feed is a critical factor influencing production costs and the sustainability of farmers’ activities.

Gathered under the theme "Envisioning Tomorrow’s Livestock Farming," participants called for prioritizing national sovereignty in livestock feed, especially in the context of climate pressures and rising costs.

Structural Challenges Beyond Drought

The Secretary General of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rachid Aarach, noted that the challenges facing the sector extend beyond the impacts of drought. He mentioned profound structural transformations in rural areas that require a long-term vision. Aarach emphasized that today’s decisions directly influence food security regarding animal products and the future of hundreds of thousands of farmers.

Animal Feed: The Key to Profitability

Speakers stressed the central role of animal feed in controlling production costs and ensuring the stability of livestock farming, particularly amid dwindling pastures and increased reliance on purchased feed.

Towards a More Organized and Sustainable Sector

Several participants advocated for a transition to a more structured approach, focusing on securing feed supply, enhancing the genetic quality of herds, reorganizing supply chains, and reducing intermediaries. They also underscored the need to make the profession more attractive to young people in rural areas.

A High-Participation International Show

This edition of SIAM assembles over 1,500 exhibitors, 500 cooperatives, and 200 breeders, along with 45 foreign delegations, with more than 1.1 million visitors expected. This year’s show features 70 countries, with Portugal as the guest of honor.