The region of Rabat-Salé-Kénitra produced around 127,000 tons in 2018/2019, which represents 65% of the national berry production, including 110,600 tons of strawberries, 10,360 tons of blueberries and 6,200 tons of raspberries.
The region’s berry production is an important part of the economy. It is followed by the regions of Tanger-Tétouan-Al Hoceima, with an annual production of approximately 44,980 tons (23%), and of Souss-Massa with 24,560 tons (12%).
The Gharb Regional Office for Agricultural Development (ORMVAG) indicates that the yield achieved is about 42 tons/hectare (T/ha) for strawberries and varies between 10 and 12 T/ha for blueberries and raspberries.
At the national level, the annual berry production went from 107,000 tons in 2009/2010 to 174,000 tons in 2017/2018, and 197,000 tons in 2018/2019. This represents an increase of 84%. Additionally, the total berry surface area, supported by the Green Morocco Plan (PMV), has experienced a strong growth, from 3,035 hectares in 2009/2010 to 8,400 hectares in 2018/2019, which represents an increase of 176%. The sector generates a total national revenue of 3.76 billion dirhams [0.39 billion USD], which is more than 88% of the export.
“The berry sector has grown considerably since it was introduced into the Ghard perimeter,” explained Allal Zbair, head of the department for agricultural development at ORMVAG. He also mentioned that this growth was partly due to the geographical proximity with Europe, the favorable agro-climatic conditions, the water resources available, the qualified workforce and the installation of large production plants, highly integrated and equipped with the technological and logistical means necessary for a quality production and its export, as well as the incentives granted by the State.
Source : http://abc24.ma