Morocco’s citrus industry is experiencing significant growth in the 2024/25 marketing year, with mandarin exports projected to reach 500,000 metric tons—a 27% increase over the previous season. This surge underscores the country’s expanding role in the global citrus market.
Production Growth:
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) estimates Morocco’s tangerine and mandarin production at 1.1 million metric tons for the 2024/25 season, marking a 16% rise from the prior year. This increase is attributed to favourable weather conditions during the flowering period and the adoption of advanced irrigation techniques, such as drip irrigation.
Export Expansion:
The export season commenced in early November, with the European Union remaining the primary destination, capturing 30% of Morocco’s tangerine and mandarin exports. While exports to Russia have declined due to geopolitical factors, Morocco is exploring new markets to diversify its export portfolio.
Infrastructure and Market Diversification:
To bolster exports, Morocco has established a new maritime route between Agadir and Dakar, enhancing trade with West African countries. Additionally, efforts are underway to penetrate the Japanese market, following successful compliance with Japan’s stringent phytosanitary standards.
Morocco’s strategic investments in agricultural practices and infrastructure are yielding positive results, positioning the country as a key player in the global mandarin market. With continued focus on quality and market expansion, Morocco’s citrus sector is poised for sustained growth.
