Morocco, Rabat (African Boulevard) – Does Morocco secretly control the world Food Supply?
Morocco, a country in North Africa, holds a resource that could potentially control the future of the world’s food supply. With 70% of the world’s phosphate reserves, the nation’s monopoly on this critical ingredient for fertilizer has far-reaching consequences.
Moroccan Phosphate Giant OCP Reports ‘Exceptional’ Earnings as Russia’s war on Ukraine rages on.
The latest earnings report of Moroccan phosphate giant OCP has left the world reeling with surprise. The company has reported “exceptional” numbers for last year, revealing a staggering increase in net income compared to the previous year. This year, the company’s profits have more than doubled, leaving investors and analysts speechless. The increase in fertilizer prices due to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine was largely responsible for the impressive earnings.
The Role of Guano and Synthetic Fertilizer
The discovery of guano, the excretion of bats and seabirds, as a fertilizer in the early 19th century was a game-changer that boosted food production in the United States and Europe. However, it was the discovery of synthetic fertilizer by Fritz Haber in 1913 that caused a population explosion worldwide. Since then, the world’s population has grown from 1.6 billion to 7.7 billion, and crop yields have doubled in many regions.
The Depletion of Non-Renewable Resources
Potash, a non-renewable resource, is required for fertilizer, and its depletion is a growing concern. Only four countries, Canada, Russia, Belarus, and China, produce most of the world’s potash. Phosphate, another critical ingredient, is estimated to be available for 260 years. But with the population growth, shortages are already being felt.
The Uneven Distribution of Resources
The world’s phosphate reserves are unevenly distributed. Morocco has 70%, China has 5%, while the rest of the world has only 2% or less. The potential for conflicts and cooperation over access to this resource is high. China has banned the export of its phosphate to ensure enough supply for its own food production. The United States has placed tariffs on Moroccan phosphate.
The Concern of Peak Phosphorus
Peak phosphorus is a concern, much like peak oil was in the 1950s. While new sources and technological innovations may increase production, the world’s reliance on fertilizer could lead to dependence on Morocco’s phosphate. As populous countries such as India, Mexico, and Brazil become increasingly reliant on Moroccan phosphate, Morocco’s monopoly could impact global trade and lead to international conflicts.
Alternatives and Solutions
Genetic engineering is being used to increase the absorption of phosphorus in plants, and while it is showing promise, the world’s dependence on fertilizer is unprecedented. Morocco’s monopoly on phosphate reserves is a factor that cannot be ignored when considering the future of the world’s food supply.
The Future of Our Food Supply at Risk
Morocco’s monopoly on phosphate reserves could have a significant impact on the world’s food supply. The uneven distribution of this resource and the potential for conflicts over access to it could lead to a global food crisis. As the world looks to alternatives and solutions, the role of Morocco in this critical industry cannot be ignored. The world’s food supply is at stake, and it’s up to us to take action before it’s too late.
