A recent report on UK food security (UKFSR/2024) highlights the growing importance of agricultural relations between London and Rabat. Published by the British Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, this document highlights the rise of Morocco as a strategic partner in British food imports.
Morocco, a key player in vegetable exports to the United Kingdom:
In 2023, Moroccan agricultural exports to the United Kingdom saw a significant increase, placing Morocco among the main suppliers of fresh vegetables to the British market. The report reveals that 7.5% of UK fresh vegetable imports now come from Morocco, consolidating its position alongside historic partners such as Spain, the Netherlands, France and Poland.
Diversification for increased resilience:
According to the UKFSR, this diversification of supply sources has enabled the UK to strengthen its resilience in the face of global disruptions, from extreme weather conditions to geopolitical tensions. This strategic approach aims to stabilize the UK food supply chain and ensure better food security for the future.
Morocco, global pillar of fertilizer production:
The report also highlights Morocco’s role in fertilizer production, emphasizing that the country, alongside China and the United States, is among the world’s largest producers of phosphate rock. Although global production of phosphate fertilizers recorded a slight decline of 1.9% between 2019 and 2022 to stand at 46.1 million tonnes, Morocco continues to play a central role in this vital sector for the global agriculture.
A strategic report for the future:
The UKFSR, presented to Parliament in Westminster every three years, is a detailed analysis of food and agricultural trends, aiming to provide a comprehensive and impartial view of the country’s food security. It draws on data from official and academic sources, providing a valuable tool to guide political and economic decisions.
Building on its strong relationships with partners like Morocco, the UK is anticipating future challenges and seeking to build a more robust and sustainable food supply chain, in line with global challenges.
The editorial team/Le7tv
Morocco
