Morocco produces 74,000 tons of dates in 2000

Morocco's date production is scheduled to reach this year 74,000 tons, say estimates of the agriculture, rural development and water and forest ministry. The output, marking a 2% increase compared to last year, is grown mainly in the central regions of Ouarzazate and Errachidia which provide 90% of national production.

Each date-tree produces an average of 20 kg. Consumption stands at 3 kg per inhabitant nationwide and at 15 kg per inhabitant in the production areas.