Case studies
The privatisation of the Moroccan tobacco industry in 2003 allowed the Altadis Group to acquire an 80 per cent stake in the state owned Régie des Tabacs. In 2006, the remaining 20 per cent was purchased from the Moroccan Government. Altadis Morocco has around 1,500 employees, two cigarette factories in Aïn Harrouda and Tetouan, and a tobacco processing plant at El Moudzine.
Altadis Morocco works closely with the authorities and local tobacco farming communities on specific projects and initiatives, including supporting tobacco farmers who previously grew tobacco used in dark cigarettes. Sales of dark cigarettes had decreased over recent years, leaving many farmers in the north of the country without income from their tobacco crop. Altadis Morocco has provided funding to help these farmers convert their farms to olive groves. Much of the work is tied into the agreement related to the acquisition of Régie des Tabacs.
The company also provides support to the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity, chaired by His Majesty King Mohammed VI. The company works in partnership with the government to help eradicate illiteracy and to encourage social inclusion and environmental protection. In addition, the company has been a partner to the Mohammed VI Foundation for the Protection of the Environment through its Clean Beaches programmes.
