Morocco Embarks on Legal Cannabis-Based Products Market
In a progressive move, Morocco is poised to inaugurate the sale of legal cannabis-based dietary supplements and cosmetic products in pharmacies, commencing from June 1, 2024. This initiative follows recent governmental approval of cannabis cultivation and processing, marking a pivotal step towards leveraging the economic potential of the cannabis industry.
The initial product lineup, comprising nine dietary supplements and ten cosmetic items, has been duly registered with the Directorate of Medicines and Pharmacy (DMP), ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
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The Confederation of Moroccan Pharmacists’ Unions (CSPM) has affirmed that these products will be exclusively available in pharmacies nationwide, signalling a concerted effort to ensure stringent oversight and accessibility.
This development follows a series of regulatory advancements, notably law 13-21, empowering processors and manufacturers to directly distribute cannabis-based products to consumers upon meeting rigorous legal prerequisites and obtaining authorisation from the National Agency for the Regulation of Cannabis-Related Activities (ANRAC).
A recent convening at ANRAC’s headquarters, chaired by Mohammed El Guerrouj, governor and general director of ANRAC, focused on the commercialisation of both medicinal and non-medicinal cannabis-based products. Discussions included crucial regulations concerning the THC content in these products.
According to ANRAC guidelines, products exceeding a THC content of 1% will be designated solely for pharmaceutical use, necessitating further processing into medications. Conversely, products with THC levels below 1% can be diversified into various forms, including cosmetics and dietary supplements. Notably, dietary supplements must contain CBD with less than 0.3% THC, while cosmetic products must be formulated with CBD devoid of THC.
The Adbib Agricultural Cooperative in Ketama, near Al Hoceima, has emerged as a pioneering entity in this endeavour, receiving authorisation to cultivate “Beldia,” a pure Moroccan cannabis variety.
Pharmacists and industry stakeholders have expressed optimism regarding the forthcoming opportunities, viewing this as a transformative moment for Morocco. A CSPM representative remarked, “This marks a pivotal moment for Morocco. Our pharmacies will soon offer a range of innovative products that not only meet legal standards but also provide new health and wellness options for our customers.”
Morocco’s Vigilant Policing Halts Large Cannabis Resin Shipment
Morocco’s police forces have intercepted a significant consignment of 18.243 tonnes of cannabis resin in the coastal town of Sidi Rehal, situated to the south of Casablanca. The operation, reported by Reuters, resulted in the apprehension of five individuals who were in the process of unloading the illicit substance from a truck into rapid inflatable boats, according to a statement issued by the police.
Authorities have initiated investigations into the detained individuals’ affiliations with both local and international drug trafficking networks, signalling a robust response to combat the pervasive issue of drug trafficking.
This recent seizure underscores Morocco’s intensified efforts to curtail drug trafficking activities within its borders. Earlier in March, authorities seized 10.7 tonnes of cannabis in the Atlantic coast city of Agadir, followed by another significant confiscation last June, where 19.5 tonnes of cannabis resin were intercepted, concealed in a truck loaded with octopus destined for Spain.
Morocco, renowned as a major cannabis producer, has authorised the cultivation, export, and medicinal use of the plant since 2021, emphasising its commitment to regulated and legal channels for cannabis-related activities, while firmly prohibiting recreational usage.
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