Why it matters: The article discusses the recent appointment of Mohamed El Guerrouj as the general director of the Morocco National Agency for Regulating Cannabis Related Activities (ANRAC). This appointment is significant as ANRAC is responsible for regulating all aspects of Morocco’s cannabis industry, including cultivation and processing. Morocco has a long history of cannabis cultivation, and legalizing and regulating the industry has economic and social implications for the country.
What they are saying: Mohamed El Guerrouj, who has a background in agriculture and development, has been appointed as the general director of ANRAC by Moroccan King Mohammed VI. ANRAC was established in 2022 to regulate the cannabis industry in Morocco. The article also discusses the history of cannabis cultivation in Morocco and the challenges faced by cultivators in the Rif mountains.
The big picture: Morocco’s legalization and regulation of the cannabis industry is a significant development for the country. The cannabis industry has the potential to contribute to economic growth and job creation. However, transitioning from illegal to legal cultivation poses challenges for cultivators, and the government will need to address these concerns to ensure a smooth transition.
What to watch: It will be important to monitor how ANRAC regulates the cannabis industry and ensures compliance with the law. The success of the legal cannabis industry will depend on effective regulation and support for cultivators. Additionally, it will be interesting to see how legal cultivation impacts the illegal cannabis market in the Rif mountains.
My take: The appointment of Mohamed El Guerrouj as the general director of ANRAC is a positive step towards regulating the cannabis industry in Morocco. Legalizing and regulating cannabis cultivation has the potential to benefit both the economy and the livelihoods of cultivators. However, it is crucial that the government addresses the concerns of cultivators and provides support and resources to ensure a successful transition to legal cultivation.
