Morocco has resumed its orange exports to the USA, with the first 11 months of 2024 witnessing a record-breaking performance. According to EastFruit, over 20,000 tons of oranges were exported to the American market from January to November. This volume represents a 3.5-fold increase over the figures from 2023 and is nearly 10% higher than the previous record set in 2022. Additionally, export revenues reached a new peak at $29.6 million.
Before 2013, Moroccan orange shipments to the USA were inconsistent. However, exports have occurred annually since then, with more than 10,000 tons shipped in both 2018 and 2022. In 2024, the USA emerged as the primary destination for Moroccan oranges, absorbing over 40% of Morocco's total orange exports.
The export peak season for Moroccan oranges spans from April to July, a period of minimal competition. This timing advantageously positions Morocco against other major exporters like Chile, South Africa, and Mexico, whose orange export seasons are either just starting or ending. In the previous year, Morocco extended its export season into September and October.
Chile, South Africa, and Mexico are the leading orange suppliers to the USA, collectively accounting for nearly 85% of the imports in 2024. Morocco has secured the fourth position with approximately a 9% share, maintaining this rank since 2022. Factors such as climate change, water shortages, and severe droughts have previously impacted Morocco's orange production, notably leading to a record low in exports in 2023.
Source: East Fruit