Morocco continues to strengthen its position among the African leaders in the citrus market, with export forecasts reaching 597,000 tonnes for the 2024-2025 campaign. This represents a remarkable increase of 31% compared to the previous season.
This figure, published in a recent report from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and relayed by The Economist in its edition of Tuesday January 7, reflects the growing dynamism of the sector. This performance places the Kingdom in third place on the continent, behind South Africa and Egypt, two major players on the international scene.
“The report highlights the reasons for this advancement, including increased adoption of advanced irrigation technologies. These innovations have enabled optimized management of water resources, contributing to a 16% increase in national production. This is expected to reach 2.1 million tonnes, setting a new record for the country», Reports the daily.
In terms of exports, mandarins remain the main locomotive, representing 83% of planned volumes, or around 500,000 tonnes. Oranges occupy second position with a share of 15%, while lemons complete the offer.
The strengthening of commercial partnerships, particularly with West Africa, has also played a determining role in this dynamic. Last December, a strategic memorandum of understanding was signed to establish a new maritime line linking Agadir to Dakar.
This project aims to reduce logistics costs, streamline maritime transport and increase the efficiency of trade between the two regions. According to the USDA, this new connection should “facilitate and increase citrus exports to West African countries,” thereby strengthening Morocco’s position in this growing market.
“Moroccan citrus fruits are also exported beyond the African continent, targeting strategic markets such as the European Union, Russia, the United States and Canada. In 2023, citrus exports generated more than $456.5 million, according to Trade Map data», added The Economist. This financial performance places the citrus sector on the same level as that of red fruits, two major pillars of Moroccan export agriculture. Together, these two sectors represent a significant source of income for the agricultural sector, while supporting thousands of jobs across the Kingdom.
For the 2024-2025 campaign, forecasts announce notable progress in the Moroccan citrus industry, driven by a strategy focused on innovation and the development of international trade. This occurs in a context marked by global climatic and economic challenges, where the capacity for adaptation and competitiveness of agricultural production constitutes a key factor.
