Due to restrictions on watermelon production in the Moroccan region of Zagora, imposed by the local government, watermelon volumes from this region will decline significantly this season.
The decision is due to the depletion of the water table and the lack of rainfall in the region. The local government, therefore, decided in late October 2022, to restrict acreage to 0.5-1 ha per producer and to ban it altogether in some areas that contain drinking water sources.
"There was great confusion and uncertainty among growers about the fate of their crops in the context of this restriction, and the extent of its enforcement by the authorities. In the end, there was a drop in acreage that I can estimate at 25%," said Mohammed Benradi, a watermelon producer located in Zagora.
"Due to restrictions, our watermelon volumes at Crealives are around 1000 tons this year. Harvest is imminent, and our export schedules will be available next week through a packing house in the city of Agadir," added Benradi.
In addition to the drop in volumes, the water stress situation has caused an increase in water supply costs, which have risen by 12-13% this season, according to the producer.
But there are no concerns about the quality of the watermelons, he adds, "The weather conditions have been mostly good throughout the year. The climate in the region is very suitable for this crop, which will reflect on the taste and sizes, ranging from 8 to 18 kg. The quality of Zagora watermelons is well-known even internationally, and we are confident that this year is no exception."
Moroccan production competes with several other countries in the region, such as Mauritania and Senegal, which have simultaneous export calendars. Benradi says he is confident about Morocco's advantages: "There are good producers in Mauritania and Senegal, the climatic conditions are also good there, and they do their best. But in Morocco, the cultivation and export of watermelons are more ancient practices, and we have a stronger expertise and more professional operations. Finally, the determinant remains the quality/price, and I can say with confidence that it is to the advantage of Moroccan producers."
Crealives exports its watermelon production in particular to the Netherlands and the UK, but Benradi says he is ready to export his volumes elsewhere, "we have all the necessary certifications for the European markets and want to introduce our products to partners from all over the world and build relationships that will benefit everyone when volumes return to the norm," concludes Benradi.
For more information:
Mohammed Benradi
Crealives
+212 661-700187
crealives.ben@gmail.com