Morocco: Comprehensive livestock census reveals 32.8 million head count
Morocco’s Ministry of Agriculture has completed a nationwide livestock census revealing a total of 32,832,573 head of cattle across the kingdom. The census was conducted between June 26 and August 11, 2025, as part of royal directives to reconstruct national herds following years of drought.
The census documented 23,158,248 sheep (including 16,348,449 females), 7,474,172 goats (5,293,805 females), 2,094,109 cattle (1,556,842 females), and 106,044 camels (91,432 females). This comprehensive data collection establishes an accurate baseline for agricultural planning and food security strategies.
While overall livestock numbers showed increases, cattle and camel populations declined approximately 30% from historical averages. Cattle numbers fell from typical levels of 3-3.2 million due to pandemic-related restrictions and irrigation suspensions in agricultural zones. Camel populations, normally around 150,000 head, suffered from consecutive drought years affecting pastoral regions.
The government has mobilized 11 billion dirhams in direct financial support for livestock farmers, covering animal feed acquisition, preservation of breeding females, debt relief, vaccination campaigns, and technical assistance programs. Aid distribution will be determined based on census results, with identified animals receiving numbered tags for tracking purposes.
Based on these statistics, authorities announced that import duty suspensions on sheep and goats, along with powdered milk, will be lifted by late September 2025. However, import duty exemptions for cattle will continue to support gradual herd reconstruction efforts.
The census operation represents a critical component of Morocco’s agricultural resilience strategy, providing essential data for improving sector productivity and sustainability. The initiative aims to enhance national food sovereignty while supporting rural livelihoods dependent on livestock farming across the kingdom’s diverse ecological zones.