Erfoud - Morocco's 14th edition of the International Date Fair in Erfoud continued to welcome crowds of visitors on its second day, where they explored stands brimming with dates, bio-cosmetics, and honey.
The fair's halls offered visitors an immersive journey into the world of dates and oasis culture, not only through interactive stands but also chances to taste the fruits themselves.
Part of the day's agenda was an awards ceremony that honored outstanding participants in this year's edition, with Director General of the Agricultural Development Agency El Mahdi Arrifi, and numerous agricultural sector leaders in attendance.
The awards aim to encourage and motivate date producers and processors in Morocco, recognizing the efforts they invest in producing and enhancing the fruit through modern techniques across various stages of date palm cultivation.
The United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia received merit awards for international participation in the exhibition. Four regional cooperatives won awards for best date display pavilions: Oasis of Morocco Cooperative in Zagora province, Oasis Sijilmassa Cooperative in Errachidia province, Aghlan Cooperative in Tata province, and Nakhla Tighijjit Cooperative in Guelmim province. Amira Farm in Figuig province also earned recognition.
Asil Argane Cooperative from the Guelmim-Oued Noun region won the award for best pioneers in regional products. The judges presented awards to 22 distinguished date production units -- 11 modern facilities and 11 traditional operations.
Throughout the day, attendees discovered several specialized zones that displayed the oasis sector's rich diversity. Additionally, dedicated livestock area displayed indigenous sheep and goat breeds from oasis regions.
An agricultural supplies section featured companies that specialize in fertilizers, irrigation equipment, renewable energy solutions, and packaging materials, providing visitors with an inside look into the entire process of date cultivation - from the tree to tasting.
The "Rahba" pavilion served as the event's centerpiece -- a massive 3,000 m² commercial hub where date producers, cooperatives, and economic interest groups exhibited and sold their products. An additional 300 m² space featured regional specialty products from across Morocco's oasis territories.