Morocco’s agricultural sector is seeing an increase in the export of fresh asparagus, with the country on track to potentially break its own export record for the fourth consecutive season.
According to EastFruit, an agricultural analytics firm, this trend can be attributed to several factors, including an extended harvest season and a shift in export destinations.
Specifically, data from EastFruit indicates that Morocco has already surpassed its export figures for the first half of the current season (November 2022 to March 2024) compared to the same period last year.
With 320 tons shipped in this period, compared to 260 tons in the previous season, Morocco is well positioned to achieve a new record by the end of the export season in August.
This growth reflects Morocco’s recent efforts to strengthen its asparagus production capacity. Traditionally, peak periods for Moroccan asparagus harvests fell between January and March.
However, over the past two years, strong sales have continued until the end of May, indicating a longer window of opportunity for both domestic and international buyers.
The European Union (EU) remains a key market for the export of Moroccan asparagus, with the early harvest season giving Moroccan producers a competitive advantage.
Spain has historically been the largest importer, using the asparagus for domestic consumption and re-exporting to other European countries.
However, this season has seen a shift in export destinations. Belgium has emerged as the primary recipient, with more than half of all Moroccan asparagus shipments.
Spain still retains a significant share, about a third, with smaller amounts distributed to France, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.
This change in export destinations can be attributed to various factors, including possible changes in buyer preferences, pricing strategies, or logistical considerations. According to EastFruit, further research is needed to determine the exact reasons behind this development.
In addition to Europe, Morocco is also exploring new markets for its asparagus in the Middle East. Although exports to this region are still modest, some initial successes have been achieved.
The past two seasons saw small shipments to Bahrain and Qatar, and this year Morocco successfully exported 1.7 tons of asparagus to Jordan.
This diversification strategy demonstrates the North African country’s ambition to expand its asparagus exports beyond the traditional European markets.
The success of these efforts in the Middle East remains to be seen, with factors such as transportation costs and import regulations likely to play a role in the long-term viability of these new markets.
Morocco World News
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