Argan Oil, a Popular Beauty Product, Comes With a Cost in Morocco

August 1, 2025

Argan oil, a prized cosmetic worldwide, serves as a crucial economic lifeline for rural Moroccan women while coming from forests increasingly threatened by overconsumption and climate change. Women in cooperatives process the oil through traditional methods passed down through generations, earning minimal wages while international companies reap substantial profits. The argan forest has shrunk by 40% since 2000 due to multiple factors including drought, overgrazing, and agricultural expansion.

Who is affected

Rural Moroccan women working in argan cooperatives
Local communities dependent on argan forests for livelihood
Consumers of argan oil products globally
Argan cooperative owners like Hafida El Hantati
The ecosystem surrounding argan forests, including soil quality and desertification barriers
Younger generations potentially losing connection to traditional practices

What action is being taken

The Moroccan government is planting new argan trees across 39 square miles using intercropping techniques with capers
Government water trucks are delivering water to newly planted saplings
The government is attempting to build storage centers to help producers negotiate better deals
Women's cooperatives continue harvesting and processing argan oil through traditional methods
The Union of Women's Argan Cooperatives is advocating for fairer conditions for workers

Why it matters

Argan forests serve as a natural barrier against Sahara desert expansion
The trees support biodiversity and soil quality in arid regions
The industry provides crucial income for rural women with few economic alternatives
Argan oil production preserves cultural traditions and knowledge passed through generations
The 40% reduction in forest cover represents a significant ecological threat
The economic model currently benefits large corporations while local producers earn minimal wages
The loss of argan trees threatens both environmental stability and cultural heritage

What's next

A new version of government storage centers is expected in 2026 with fewer barriers to access for cooperatives
No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint