Analysis of the Moroccan agri-food system through national accounting “2015 Social Accounting Matrix”: The role of the wheat sector in the agri-food complex

Abstract

This paper evaluates the role of wheat in Moroccan agriculture. A social accounting matrix for 2015 disaggregates soft and durum wheat, focusing on agriculture and the agri-food industry. Results show that soft and durum wheat account for 19% of agricultural product resources. Their production contributes 21% to agricultural valueadded, represents 3% of national value-added, generates 16% of agricultural wages, and 17% of agricultural capital. The industrial processing of these wheats contributes only 5% of the total value-added in the agri-food industry, generating 4.3% of labor and 5% of capital in this sector. Multiplier effects indicate that soft and durum wheat impact production activities by 2.66 and 2.6, respectively. An additional 1% injection would lead to an 84% increase in soft wheat production, a 16% rise in value-added, and a 26% increase in household income. For durum wheat, production would rise by 75%, value-added by 13%, and household income by 22%. Comparing the multiplier effects of wheat processing to production activities, the processing industry has a greater impact on production, value-added, and household income. These findings underscore the significant role of wheat in Morocco’s agricultural and agri-food sectors, highlighting its economic and social importance. The multiplier effects suggest strategic investments and policy decisions could optimize benefits from wheat production and processing activities.