Ms. Fatiha, Sales & Marketing Director at Delassus, explains, "The expected production has been affected and we lost up to 45% of the normal volume. In regard to export potential, it is also to be noted that the domestic market is very active and might be an interesting alternative and hence may compete with exports. However, the exporters will endeavour to maintain the decrease in the exported volume at around 20%."
The export of soft citrus from Morocco started last week and will last until April. Three main varieties will be successively exported: Clementine, Nour and Nadorcott.
In December, the oranges will begin with some Navel and some W. Sanguine available. The orange season will last probably until June depending on how active the market is.
Delassus handles 2700 ha of citrus. Its own production represents 80% of its export. The company has farms located in Marrakech, Beni mellal and Agadir areas. "Like all Moroccan production, we are affected by the decrease in volume, thus we decided to concentrate this season on our best customers in terms of partnership. Our main markets are North America, Russia and the UK," says Ms Fatiha.
Fatiha concludes by saying that from week 46 rain will an important factor, "We hope that we will be able to pick all our clementines before mid December and be able to offer a very good quality to the market."
For more information:
Fatiha Charrat
Tel: +212 665 186 868
Email: fatiha@delassus.com
www.delassus.com