Morocco is showcasing its exceptional culinary heritage and growing export potential as the guest of honor at the Americas Food and Beverage 2024, the leading U.S. trade event dedicated to agri-food products, according to the Moroccan Ambassador to Washington, Youssef Amrani.
“Morocco is proud to once again participate in this world-renowned exhibition, where we will exhibit the excellence of our agri-food and fisheries products to an American market increasingly eager for our exceptional national product”, Amrani stated during the show which runs until Wednesday.
He stated that the kingdom is actively pursuing a range of international partnerships, including those with the United States. They present significant growth potential and offer unique opportunities to increase the share of Moroccan agricultural exports reaching the US market over time.
In collaboration with the World Trade Center Miami, the Moroccan pavilion stands out at the event, which draws over 7,500 industry professionals and showcases Morocco’s rich culinary heritage.
The opening session featured remarks from several American officials, including Senator, Maria Elvira Salazar; Miami-Dade Mayor, Daniela Lévine Cava; Miami Beach Mayor, Steven Meiner; World Trade Center Miami President, Roberto Diaz; and Clara Acosta, a representative from the Latino-American Chamber of Commerce.
The speakers emphasized Morocco’s strategic importance as a trading partner for Miami, noting the country’s growing presence on the international market, particularly in food exports. They also highlighted the potential for mutually beneficial trade between Morocco and the North American market.
“Thanks to the 2004 Free Trade Agreement, the Kingdom is reinforcing its trade position with North America. . . . Moroccan exporters here can boost their sales, meet buyers, and stay updated on industry trends,” Amrani stated.
Bilateral trade has grown significantly, reaching $5 billion in 2023 compared with just $925 million in 2005.
American exports to Morocco have increased by 700% in value, from $480 million in 2005 to $3.4 billion in 2023.
Moroccan exports to the U.S. have tripled in value, reaching $1.6 billion in 2023, up from $445 million in 2005.
With over 80,000 Moroccan community members residing in Florida, the Kingdom remains dedicated to strengthening cultural and economic ties between the two countries, the Ambassador noted. He added that “the direct flight between Casablanca and Miami, inaugurated in 2019, exemplifies this dynamic, as do the bilateral agreements in the port and maritime sectors.”
Morocco, according to the diplomat, “acts as a gateway to Africa and a strategic partner for the U.S. in developing resilient, sustainable supply chains across key sectors, including agriculture, which is vital for global food security.”
Amrani, joined by the Consul General of the Kingdom in Miami, Chafika El Habti, asserted that Morocco’s presence at the major fair, led by the General Director of Morocco Foodex, Ghita El Ghorfin, “serves not only a commercial purpose but also as a platform for fostering long-term partnerships, exchanging ideas, and contributing to the advancement of our industries.”