Legal Cannabis: Somacan, a Pioneering Integrator in the Industry

Established in 2023, Somacan emerged as one of Morocco’s pioneering enterprises in the legal cannabis sector, following the implementation of Law 13-21 which created a regulatory framework for industrial, therapeutic, and cosmetic cannabis applications. The company employs approximately 50 staff and has developed an operational processing facility since September 2024, strategically located in Sahel Boutaher, Mezraoua municipality (Taounate Province) – a region with deep historical ties to cannabis cultivation. Somacan oversees the complete value chain from cultivation to processing, serving industrial, cosmetic, nutritional, and therapeutic markets.

‘We’re developing a diversified range of cannabis-derived products, including dietary supplements, natural cosmetics, and therapeutic/nutritional extracts,’ explains Redouane Ellouzy, Somacan’s General Director. These formulations utilize cannabis plant extracts with high cannabinoid concentrations.

While CBD seeds are imported, the company employs the local ‘Beldia’ variety for THC production. To ensure consistent quality sourcing, Somacan implemented a structured agricultural aggregation model partnering with local cooperatives. ‘We currently collaborate with over 33 cooperatives across Taounate, Chefchaouen, and Al-Hoceïma provinces, covering 445 hectares. Cumulative investments now exceed 50 million dirhams, demonstrating our commitment to structured, sustainable development of this new industry,’ Ellouzy states.  

The director emphasized the pivotal role of Morocco’s National Agency for Cannabis Activities Regulation (ANRAC) in fostering a sustainable ecosystem through support for agricultural cooperatives, streamlined investor processes, and development of high-value sectors. ‘In regions like Taounate, Chefchaouen, and Al-Hoceïma, ANRAC is transforming regulated cannabis into an engine for economic opportunity, local employment, and responsible growth,’ concludes Somacan’s CEO.

Since 2024: Over 25 Cosmetic Products

While awaiting this season’s harvest of the ‘Roumia’ variety in September, last year’s total yield reached 430 tons – 230 tons of Beldia and 200 tons of Roumia – allocated for both domestic market products and international exports. Somacan has registered more than 25 cannabis-derived products with the Ministry of Health since 2024, including body creams, anti-hair loss shampoos, anti-aging oils, dietary supplements, and herbal teas.  

Cannabis extracts are used to manufacture cosmetics, nutritional supplements, relaxation products, and anti-inflammatory medications. Notably, Pharma 5’s Cannabidol – a cannabis-based medication – is already commercially available in pharmacies.  

‘Our products are highly sought internationally for their superior quality, stemming from organic cultivation without pesticides and exclusive use of natural fertilizers,’ explains Ellouzy. Though export volumes remain confidential since commencing international sales in 2024, Somacan currently supplies European markets (Switzerland, Czechia, Portugal, Luxembourg) and plans expansions into Germany and the United States, with active negotiations underway in both countries.  

Quality assurance involves sample testing across 7 accredited laboratories in Casablanca, Mohammédia, Rabat, and Salé, supervised by the regulatory agency.  

Significant Untapped Potential

When asked about the emerging industry’s prospects, Somacan’s CEO highlights steadily growing demand in natural wellness, self-care, and alternative treatment sectors: ‘The potential is substantial, contingent on modernized regulations that formally recognize cannabis’ therapeutic applications and foster innovation.’  

While commending governmental progress, Ellouzy advocates for accelerated sector development through: Streamlined licensing, registration, and certification processes; Enhanced support for R&D and clinical trials; Export facilitation mechanisms to position Morocco as a regional hub and Improved financing access for SMEs and innovative startups

‘These measures will unlock the industry’s full socioeconomic impact while maintaining rigorous quality and compliance standards,’ concludes the executive.

54 Million Dirhams (MDH) for Pharmaceutical Laboratory in Ain Cheggag

Building on its Sahel Boutaher facility for cosmetics and dietary supplements, Somacan has initiated construction of a pharmaceutical laboratory in Ain Cheggag Industrial Zone near Fès. Developed with funding partners, this 54-million-dirham project aims to advance Morocco’s medical cannabis sector, producing treatments for chronic conditions including Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and specific forms of epilepsy.  

Ellouzy clarifies the dual focus: ‘This facility will supply domestic demand while expanding exports, alongside driving medical research innovation.’ The laboratory will pursue triple certification from European, American, and Asian regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with international standards, enabling market diversification and reinforcing Morocco’s position as a regional and continental leader in this high-potential industry.  

The certifications specifically target alignment with EU Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), FDA requirements, and ASEAN pharmaceutical standards, streamlining access to regulated global markets. ‘This strategic infrastructure positions Morocco not just as a producer, but as a hub for advanced cannabis-derived therapeutics,’ Ellouzy added.