Morocco’s FNM signs strategic partnership with Canada to secure premium durum supply
Primarily used for couscous and pasta production, Canada Western Amber Durum (CWAD) is especially valued in Morocco for its bright yellow pigment.
MOROCCO – Morocco’s National Federation of Milling (FNM) has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Cereals Canada, reinforcing decades of stable trade between the two countries.
The MOU, formalised in Casablanca in October 2025, sets out a framework for deepening both commercial and technical cooperation.
The federation sees the MOU as an opportunity not only to secure premium wheat but also to drive innovation, improve processing outcomes, and reinforce Morocco’s regional leadership in couscous and pasta production.
“Moroccan mills and processors succeed when they have the right wheat and the right technical support. This agreement strengthens our ability to deliver both,” FNM stated.
This wheat variety is prized in Morocco for its bright yellow pigment, hard vitreous kernels, high protein content, and strong yet extensible gluten, which together produce high-quality semolina and the fluffy, non-sticky couscous and firm pasta textures Moroccan consumers prefer.
In 2024, Morocco imported 1.1 million metric tonnes (MMT) of Canadian durum, valued at CAD 521 million, representing 25% of the country’s total wheat consumption.
With Canada producing only 15% of the world’s durum but controlling 54% of global exports, the North African nation relies heavily on Canadian wheat to meet the quality standards demanded by its couscous and pasta industries.
Dean Dias, CEO of Cereals Canada, attended the signing in Casablanca and highlighted Morocco’s role as a “quality-conscious market” that demands consistency and high performance.
“CWAD continues to deliver on its global reputation for bright colour, strong gluten, and excellent semolina yields,” he said.
He added that, through ongoing collaboration and feedback from Moroccan customers, Canada is driving innovation across the value chain, from breeders to farmers, to ensure Canadian durum continues to meet the highest standards.
FNM has also emphasised the importance of knowledge transfer and technical engagement in this partnership.
Morocco regularly participates in Cereals Canada’s Trade and Technical Missions, and in 2024 a dedicated technical exchange programme was hosted at Cereals Canada’s Winnipeg headquarters for Moroccan millers.
These initiatives help processors better understand Canadian wheat quality, optimise milling and semolina production, and improve final product performance.
By leading this partnership, FNM is positioning Morocco to maintain long-term supply stability amid global market volatility, ensuring mills and pasta producers have dependable access to high-grade durum.
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