Beldia« legally back in Moroccan cannabis cultivation

The National Agency for the Regulation of Cannabis Activities (ANRAC) has given the go-ahead for the cultivation of Beldia, a variety of cannabis endemic to Morocco.

Recognized for its unique characteristics and therapeutic properties, Beldia holds great promise for industrial applications, particularly in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors. According to Le360, ANRAC's authorization paves the way for legal cultivation, marking the transition from clandestine practices to regulated production.

A visionary initiative

Led by veteran cannabis expert Abdellatif Adbib, the Beldia cultivation initiative confirms the region's commitment to harnessing the plant's potential in a responsible manner. while preserving the region's plant history.

Adbib, with its Kétama agricultural cooperative, is spearheading efforts to improve the economic prospects and livelihoods of local farmers. The initiative is also a means of breaking away from dependence on foreign seeds, which have caused the disappearance of local varieties, initially less productive but less water-hungry.

«The “Beldia” variety, which is specific to Morocco, can have the status of a legal crop for industrial use. Its cultivation could thus help growers to improve their standard of living and benefit the economy of the whole region», he explains.

The authorization granted by ANRAC will make it possible to’provide a legal framework for Beldia cultivation for industrial and medical purposes, with the undeniable aim of improving farmers' standard of living. Thirty farmers have already joined the cooperative.

The establishment of centers dedicated to the cultivation, harvesting and processing of Beldia will be subject to strict conditions, and its generalization remains dependent on the results of biological tests and analyses, says Le360.

Towards a regulated cannabis industry

As Morocco seeks to position itself as a key player in the global cannabis market, The arrival of local varieties is of the utmost importance, both for growers and for the potential therapeutic outlets that Beldia can offer. While its use remains industrial and medical for the time being, it goes without saying that, if legalized, Beldia could regain some of its former cultivation areas.