International Argania Day

The argan tree (Argania spinosa) is a species native to the sub-Saharan region of Morocco, in the southwest of the country, in arid and semi-arid zones. It is the flagship species of a wooded ecosystem, also known as Arganeraie, which is rich in endemic flora. It is resistant to a harsh environment, with water scarcity, risk of erosion and poor soils.

On February 2, 2021, the UN General Assembly in Resolution 75/L.62 decides to proclaim May 10 as International Argania (or Argan) Day, to be celebrated every year.

This extraordinarily beautiful ecosystem is not only important in terms of conservation, but also for research and socio-economic development, due to its forestry, agricultural and livestock use.

Argan forests provide forest products, fruits and fodder. The leaves and fruits are edible and highly valued, as is the undergrowth, and constitute a vital fodder reserve for all herds, even in periods of drought. The trees are also used as firewood for cooking and heating.

From the seeds is extracted the world-renowned argan oil, which has many applications, especially in traditional and complementary medicine and in the culinary and cosmetic industry.