The fair invites you to explore the untold stories of Morocco’s oases as they shape a sustainable future amidst changing climate conditions.
Casablanca – Morocco’s eastern oasis town of Erfoud is in a bustle of preparation ahead of the kickoff of the International Date Fair (SIDATTES), set to make its grand return from October 29 and run until November 3.
This 13th edition, themed “Moroccan Oases: Building Resilient Systems Against Climate Change,” aims to confront the environmental challenges threatening Moroccan agriculture in order to protect the country’s rich date production heritage.
Organized by Morocco’s Ministry of Agriculture and the Moroccan Association for the International Date Fair (ASIDMA), this year’s event is expected to draw around 230 exhibitors and over 90,000 visitors.
SIDATTES promises to be a bustling hub of ideas, showcasing the latest advancements in date cultivation and production.
Explore Morocco’s regional diversity
One of the fair’s key features will be its focus on Morocco’s diverse date-producing regions. Attendees can discover the unique strengths and agricultural wonders of these regions, which include Drâa-Tafilalet, Oriental, Souss-Massa, and Guelmim-Oued Noun.
Exhibits are set to provide valuable insights into the challenges and innovations within the date palm value chain, fostering a deeper appreciation for the nation’s agricultural richness.
Connect and cultivate
SIDATTES 2024 will place a strong emphasis on knowledge exchange through its Investment Forum.
This forum aims to connect industry experts, investors, and policymakers to discuss sustainable practices and investment opportunities in the date sector.
By stimulating dialogue and collaboration, the organizers aim for the forum to pave the way for innovative solutions that enhance productivity and resilience in date production.
Science meets sustainability
The second day of the fair will feature the Scientific Day, dedicated to showcasing cutting-edge research and innovative practices aimed at enhancing climate resilience in oases.
Leading agricultural scientists and experts will present their findings on advanced pollination techniques, integrated pest management, and sustainable irrigation methods specifically tailored for date palms.
Attendees will gain valuable insights into how these advancements can empower date farmers, improve yield quality, and promote sustainable farming practices.
Workshops and interactive sessions will further enable participants to engage directly with the research, fostering a collaborative environment where knowledge is shared and best practices are established.
A sweet future in focus
A pivotal event for the workers, experts, and suppliers of Morocco’s date industry, SIDATTES will serve as a hub to unite all stakeholders in addressing current challenges and exploring future opportunities.
This year’s fair aligns with the country’s broader agricultural strategy, with sustainability and resilience at the forefront amidst the country’s devastating drought.
The Moroccan government has said it is committed to the growth of the date palm sector, with plans for substantial investment of 7.5 billion dirhams by 2030.
This investment will focus on modernizing cultivation techniques, improving irrigation systems, and supporting research and development initiatives.
The significant financial commitment underscores the government’s dedication to enhancing food security and boosting the livelihoods of farmers in date-producing regions, particularly as they navigate climate-related challenges that threaten agricultural sustainability.
Oasis of Moroccan heritage
As participants gather to explore, learn, and connect, organizers hope for the International Date Fair to reaffirm its status as a cornerstone of the Moroccan agricultural landscape.
They see the exhibition as a celebration of culture, resilience, and the innovative spirit of Morocco’s cherished and vital sweet fruit.
For more information on SIDATTES and its various activities, please visit sidattes.ma.