ARGAN OIL

The Argan tree and its oil, a heritage of Morocco and humanity

Known since ancient times, the Argan tree and the oil from its fruit serve as the foundation of Berber culture and the indigenous tribes of the Moroccan High Atlas. This mythical tree only grows in the semi-desert regions of the country, from Safi in the north to the Saharan steppes in the south. Grouped into plantations, they form the Argan Forest, an immense 830,000-hectare forest that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999.

The oil extracted from its kernel represents its most renowned production and ensures the livelihood of numerous communities. Today, with its Protected Geographical Indication status, it has always been celebrated by the Berbers and beyond, for its culinary and cosmetic virtues.

Served with honey, it is a symbol of hospitality offered to guests and is a part of many traditional dishes. Yet, it's thanks to its remarkable properties for skin and hair that it has transcended the borders of Souss to find its place in our bathrooms.

Our ethical argan oil supply chain: a cooperative story

At a time when argan is still relatively unknown in Europe, Mr. Pierre Fabre was one of the first to initiate studies to highlight its pharmacological properties. Acknowledged for his commitment to promoting the export of this plant and its region, the Moroccan government appoints him to the honorary position of president of the Argan Tree Conservation Foundation, the last barrier against desertification in Morocco.

In this isolated and economically challenged region of the country, recognized as a "valuable biosphere reserve" by UNESCO, women represent an incredible driving force. However, once they become mothers, they are less available to work and consequently lose their autonomy.

We are completely committed to creating a fair cooperation with the Tazghilite association in response to this social situation. This society, which is led by women, assists in determining the wants and needs of the village's residents.

Argane AOUZAC employs around 450 women in 5 villages in 2021 for the harvesting and crushing of almonds. The association is capable of producing 50 tons of argan oil per year and is the leading producer of high-quality certified organic and fair-trade argan oil in Morocco.

Committed to assisting women in the region to achieve independence and to facilitate their access to or continuation in active life, we engage in societal and environmental initiatives such as: a literacy project, establishment of daycares, providing clean water to 6 villages, purchasing beehives, and road renovation.

This sustainable partnership actively contributes to the empowerment of Berber women by providing them with lasting resources: turning the Argan tree into a barrier not only against the desert but also against poverty.