Siliana Governorate Leads National Production of Aleppo Pine Seeds (Zgougou)
The Siliana governorate has positioned itself as the leading national producer of Aleppo pine seeds, also known as zgougou. During the current season, approximately 132,000 kg of zgougou seeds have been stored. The region is the primary supplier of the market for this product, which is essential for preparing traditional zgougou cream, a staple consumed by most Tunisian families during the Mawlid celebration, commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad.
Prices and Regulation
The price of one kilogram of zgougou varies between 44 and 50 dinars this season. Sellers interviewed by the TAP press agency attribute this increase to the significant damage caused to Aleppo pine forests in Siliana by fires. The regional forestry department has formalized the storage process for zgougou, registering warehouses with precise coordinates to facilitate surveillance by security forces and customs services.
Exploitation and Marketing
Out of the 55 plots put up for sale for the exploitation of Aleppo pine fruits, only 24 have been utilized. This situation is due to the new approach imposed by the General Directorate of Forests to regulate the exploitation of this resource, which now generates significant economic revenue. The product is sold through public auctions, and any exploiter must possess a tax license (patent) for the trade of forest products.
Large quantities of zgougou are transported to neighboring governorates for sale. The Bizerte governorate is the primary destination, absorbing over 70 tons due to the presence of a processing and packaging plant for this product. Bizerte is followed by coastal regions, notably Moknine, and then the governorates of Nabeul and Greater Tunis.
The General Directorate of Forests continues its efforts to better organize the exploitation of this product, which represents a vital source of income for many people.
