The 2026 edition of the Salon International de l'Agriculture au Maroc (SIAM) in Meknès, held from April 22 to 27, 2026, features numerous women-led cooperatives that highlight the richness of Moroccan terroir products. These cooperatives, often from remote areas, showcase items like argan oil, saffron, and traditional couscous, emphasizing sustainable practices and local know-how.
According to the SIAM 2026 official program, the event includes a dedicated space for women's cooperatives, aiming to promote their economic empowerment and visibility. The cooperatives are part of a broader trend in Morocco where women play a key role in preserving agricultural heritage and boosting rural development.
Visitors can taste and purchase products directly from the producers, fostering a direct link between rural women and urban consumers. This initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly gender equality and decent work, by providing income opportunities for women in marginalized areas.
The presence of these cooperatives at SIAM 2026 underscores the importance of small-scale agriculture in Morocco's food system, which complements larger commercial farms. The event also includes conferences on women's roles in agriculture, as noted in the SIAM 2026 agenda.
