During the 2023-2024 season, which has just ended, Moroccan avocado exports reached an all-time high, according to Abdellah Elyamlahi, President of the Moroccan Avocado Association (MAVA)
"Based on the latest figures we centralized this week from the Larache/Kenitra belt, where the bulk of Moroccan avocado production is concentrated, the industry at the national level achieved a production performance of over 70,000 tonnes this season, of which 60,000 tonnes were exported. That's 50% growth on last season. This figure is in line with our ambitions and our target announced at the end of last season, and we are on track to achieve our objective of exporting 100,000 tonnes by 2027," says Elyamlahi.
The performance has been achieved this year despite the many challenges facing the avocado sector, says the growers' representative: "We have lost more than 6,000 tonnes of fruit to storms this season, which is quite an impact. Adverse climate conditions, including insufficient rainfall, have also led to an abundance of small-sized fruits. Overall, we could have done much better in terms of volume, but we're still satisfied with this year's achievement."
The boom in the Moroccan avocado sector is attributable to the drop in production in Spain, which has left a large demand on the market, according to Elyamlahi, who continues: "Demand for Moroccan avocados has been strong this year, particularly from Spain, France, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and other countries. In terms of value too, Moroccan avocados have been exported at a higher price than last season, despite the abundance of small sizes."
Production is forecast to continue rising, says Elyamlahi. "A large proportion of avocado orchards are recent, consisting of trees 2 to 3 years old. Their yield will therefore be higher next season. The area under production is also steadily increasing. We also hope that the weather will be milder next season and that there will be more rain, for us to finally get through the cycle of drought that the country is experiencing."
For more information:
Abdellah Elyamlahi
Moroccan Avocado Association (MAVA)
Tel : +212 678732391
Email: abdellah.elyamlahi@gmail.com