The importation of apple varieties into Morocco has seen a consistent upward trend, reaching a new zenith in the first ten months of 2024 with a total import volume of 9.3 thousand tonnes, valued at over $65 million, as reported by EastFruit. This figure represents a record high since 2011 and illustrates a nearly 50% increase in comparison to 2020. Despite a minor dip in 2023, the general trajectory over the past five years underscores a growing appetite for imported apples in Morocco.
Morocco has carved out a niche for itself as a formidable apple producer within Africa, ranking second after South Africa in 2022. The preference for local apple varieties remains robust among Moroccans, driving imports primarily during the spring and summer months to compensate for the local harvest shortfall. The market has shown a particular fondness for international apple varieties including "Gala Royal," "Golden Delicious," "Fuji," among others, though local varieties continue to hold a substantial market share.
European countries dominate the apple export market to Morocco, with Italy leading at 46% of the total imports from January to October 2024, followed by Spain and Poland. The period also saw an increase in apple exports from Italy and Spain to Morocco, contrasting with a decline in imports from Poland and Portugal. In total, apples were exported to Morocco from 13 different countries in 2024.
Source: East Fruit