Estimates are hesitant about the watermelon volumes this year in Morocco. Several sources indicate a lower volume than last year, due to water stress and the ban on cultivation in some areas. Others indicate a stable or even higher volume, as several producers have relocated their production to water-abundant regions.
Soufiane Berkache, a Moroccan exporter of various fruits and vegetables, said: "There is some confusion and we are still waiting for the end of the harvest in all regions of Morocco, but I expect volumes to be lower this year because of the drought and the depletion of the water table, especially in the Souss Massa region, since many producers have moved their operations to Mauritania.
The success of this relocation has been mixed, says Soufiane: "They have been able to achieve good volumes and enter the market earlier, but since this is their first year in this venture for many producers, customers are a bit skeptical. Customers are not yet familiar with Mauritanian watermelons."
And there is indeed a difference in quality, according to Soufiane, "Mauritanian watermelon entered the European market earlier, and customers who are familiar with Moroccan watermelon have themselves said that Moroccan quality is better."
Exporters are now all racing to collect harvests from growers and provide as many quantities as they can, which is fueling price increases compared to last year, assures Soufiane, "At the beginning of week 17, prices were 6-7.5 per kg at the wholesale market of Ouled Teima (near Agadir)."
"Volumes are still small at the first harvests, we're waiting to see what it will be like when other regions enter the market. At Agadir Fraiche Fruit, we have been proactive and signed contracts with producers in the Souss Massa region from the beginning of the season, and are in a position to provide significant volumes to our customers in France, Spain, UK, Italy, and the Netherlands."
For more information:
Soufiane Barkach
Agadir Fraiche Fruit
Tel : +212653482141
Email : soufyanebarkache79@gmail.com