The origin of argan oil

Argan oil is extracted from the nuts of the argan tree (Argania spinosa), which grows almost exclusively in the southwest of Morocco. This unique ecosystem has been recognized by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve. Its limited geographic range makes argan oil scarce and valuable.

Traditionally, the oil is produced by hand, often by local women in cooperatives. This centuries-old knowledge still forms the foundation of modern argan oil production.

Two types of argan oil

There are two main types of argan oil, each with its own application:

• Cosmetic argan oil – Cold-pressed from unroasted nuts, rich in vitamin E and antioxidants. Widely used in skincare, hair products and serums.
• Culinary argan oil – Made from lightly roasted nuts, with a nutty flavor. Used in Moroccan cuisine and increasingly popular in high-end gastronomy.

For export to Europe, it is important to keep these uses strictly separate due to regulations and quality standards.

Why sourcing argan oil from Morocco is attractive

For European companies, sourcing in Morocco offers several advantages:

• Authentic origin and traceability
• High quality when processed correctly
• Strong story for consumers (heritage & sustainability)
• Proximity to Europe compared to other raw-material markets
• Growing professional export infrastructure

Argan oil fits perfectly within trends such as clean beauty, natural ingredients and fair trade.

Target groups and applications

Argan oil is relevant for various B2B target groups:

• Cosmetics and skincare brands
• Private-label producers
• Wellness & spa concepts
• Food & delicatessen brands
• Wholesalers and distributors

Both startups and established brands use argan oil to enrich their range with a premium, natural ingredient.

Sustainability and social impact

A key aspect of argan oil is its social and ecological impact. Much of the production runs through women’s cooperatives, contributing to:

• Employment for women
• Preservation of traditional knowledge
• Protection of the argan forest
• Local economic development

For brands that value ESG, CSR and storytelling, this is a strong foundation.

Quality, certification and regulation

For export to Europe, quality is crucial. Key points of attention include:

• Cold pressing and filtration
• Chemical analysis (acid value, peroxide value)
• Certifications such as ECOCERT, COSMOS or Organic
• Proper packaging and batch traceability
• Compliance with the EU Cosmetics Regulation or food legislation

A reliable sourcing partner prevents mistakes and rejection at the border.

Sourcing argan oil via MAROQ

MAROQ supports European entrepreneurs in finding reliable argan oil producers in Morocco. This includes:

• Selection and screening of suppliers
• Insight into the production process and capacity
• Support with certification and documentation
• Guidance on logistics and export
• Transparency toward your brand and customers