Morocco Honored at the International Agriculture Show in France: A Historic First
For the first time since its inception, the International Agriculture Show (SIA) in France, which will take place in Paris from February 22 to March 2, will honor a foreign country: Morocco, the organizers announced on Tuesday.
During a press conference to present this major event for French agriculture, Annie Genevard, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty, emphasized that, “for the first time in its history, the show honors a foreign agriculture, that of a partner and friend of France.” She explained that this invitation holds significant importance, especially in light of common challenges related to climate change adaptation, highlighting the mutual enrichment between the two countries in this area.
“Our farmers have much to learn from one another. French agriculture, also facing climate challenges, will benefit from Morocco’s experience, particularly in water management,” said Ms. Genevard.
In a statement to MAP, the minister expressed her “great happiness” to see Morocco as the guest of honor, underlining the historical and diverse agricultural cooperation between the two nations. She recalled that this cooperation symbolizes the long-standing friendship between the countries, and that Morocco’s presence at the show extends the recent state visit of the French president to the Kingdom, thus illustrating the continuity of their shared history.
Jérôme Despey, president of the SIA, stated that the choice of Morocco for this edition was “a choice of heart and future,” a decision that had been in the making for five years and was now realized. “Morocco is a major agricultural power, and we have much to exchange on many complementarities,” he added.
El Mahdi Arrifi, Director General of the Agency for Agricultural Development (ADA), explained that this distinction reflects the strong friendship and cooperation between the two countries, while highlighting the importance of agricultural and forestry partnerships that bind them. “It’s a recognition of the significance of these ties in the agricultural sector,” he emphasized.
Morocco will have a 476 m² central pavilion, showcasing certified Moroccan products from local cooperatives with ancestral know-how, as well as agricultural products reflecting the diversity and richness of the Moroccan sector. In addition to the exhibitions, visitors will have the opportunity to explore other aspects of Moroccan culture through artistic and cultural performances, as well as tastings of typical Moroccan products and dishes.
Mr. Arrifi expressed his pride in seeing Morocco as the guest of honor, noting that this choice is based on strong historical and friendly ties. He assured that the Moroccan pavilion would live up to this honor, with a large delegation including officials, sector professionals, and producers.
The 2025 edition of the SIA, which will take place under the theme “A French Pride,” promises to be exceptional. It will attract more than 600,000 visitors, with 4,000 animals on display and 1,000 exhibitors spread across 16 hectares. According to the show’s director, Valérie Le Roy, this 61st edition will be “a celebration of agriculture and its know-how, a moment of communion between generations, and a unique showcase of French excellence.”