Moroccan strawberry prices should start dropping soon

The Atlantic Gulf Company (AGCO) is a Moroccan firm devoted to the export by air freight of high quality fresh fruit and vegetables to several regions in the world, mainly Europe, the Middle East and Africa. AGCO specializes in several different varieties of tomatoes, clementine oranges along with a wide range of products totalling to more than 60 items.

Regarding strawberries, AGCO exports mainly the Camarosa and Festival varieties and works specifically with the Middle East. “In this area, Dubai is a very competitive market, as there is produce from Egypt, Turkey or Lebanon, so we export to other destinations, like Saudi Arabia, Qatar or Bahrain,” explains Marketing Director Karim Al Adlouni. “Saudi Arabia is a quality oriented market and also offers a safe commercial environment, which makes it ideal for us, as we offer only high-end quality.”

In terms of pricing, Karim assures that this is a factor that changes every year and is heavily dependent on the weather. “Warm weather leads to higher production and lower prices, but if it’s cold up to late February, like this year, production levels are not optimal, and prices go up. The weather is now getting warmer, so prices will also likely go down soon.”

"The strawberry season in Morocco usually starts around January and, if conditions are right, continues all the way until June. It is an industry with a bright future ahead," said Karim. "Since we are working to improve the image of Moroccan produce, as, in the end, what matters most in its success is for consumers to recognise it as a product that meets all quality standards.”

Furthermore, the biggest challenge for the Moroccan strawberry sector lies in acquiring certificates. It affects more the local growers to get certified by either Global G.A.P or at least HACCP. As a result, local growers are facing difficulties to export their own fruit. "AGCO is fully certified which gives us a competitive advantage over other Moroccan companies. Consequently, our only concern is for clients to always receive the best quality products,” concludes Karim Adlouni.

For more information:

Karim Aladlouni
Atlantic Gulf Company Morocco
Tel: +212 537 77 59 48
Fax: +212 537 77 07 87
Email: agco@agcofruit.com
Email direct: k.adlouni@agcofruit.ma
Website: www.agcofruit.com