Preparations for Ramadan are in full swing. Exporters are turning to Morocco, one of the most dynamic markets for dates, to secure their sales. The Egyptian group Al Tahhan Dates went the extra mile by opening a branch in Morocco last August, according to Ali Hassan Ali, the group's advisor for external affairs.
© Al Tahhan Dates
Ali explains the importance of the Moroccan market for the Al Tahhan group: "Morocco has already established itself as one of the most dynamic date markets in the world, with annual import volumes exceeding 50,000 tons. Ramadan is certainly the busiest period for the market. But we also see that dates are imported and consumed in Morocco throughout the year, and that their consumption is ingrained in the consumers' festive and dietary habits. This market still has great potential, as certain varieties have not yet been fully developed, nor have date-based products."
The exporter indicates that the choice of varieties and quality sold in Morocco is mainly dictated by Moroccan importers. He adds: "While consumers value quality, we find that traders and importers privilege the lowest-priced date varieties. We are moving towards a strategy aimed at getting closer to consumers, first by opening a branch in Morocco this summer, then by embracing a B2C approach with the upcoming opening of a direct sales store by next season."
© Al Tahhan Dates
According to Ali, the Egyptian varieties most imported into Morocco so far are Wadi, Kharja, and Dakhla. He adds: "Until now, our exports have been dominated by large 5 kg and 10 kg packages. However, this year, we exported small packages of 1 kg and 700 g for the first time. Egyptian varieties are becoming well-known and are in high demand among traders and consumers. They offer several advantages over their Tunisian competitors and the Deglet Nour variety, which is the most imported variety in Morocco, particularly in terms of shelf life."
The exporter expresses satisfaction with the positive trade climate between Egypt and Morocco, following several episodes of trade disputes that reached their peak in early 2025 and, before that, in 2021, as the two countries accused each other of hindering their respective exports. Ali concludes: "Our Moroccan counterparts and ourselves benefit from tariff-free exports, which sometimes raises fears of dumping in our respective markets. This issue has been discussed and resolved at the highest levels of our governments in Morocco and Egypt. I am delighted to report that the business environment is now clear and we no longer face any trade barriers in Morocco."
For more information:
Ali Hassan Ali
Al Tahhan Dates
Tel: +201029142646
Email: [email protected]
