Casablanca – Severe flooding that struck northern Morocco in recent weeks has caused significant disruption to the country’s red fruit sector, forcing many producers to end the agricultural season prematurely and exposing the vulnerability of one of Morocco’s most export-oriented farming industries. The floods, triggered by heavy rainfall and strong winds, caused widespread damage to farms, agricultural infrastructure, and export logistics, particularly in key production areas in the Loukkos basin and surrounding regions.

Major production areas heavily affected

The provinces of Kenitra, Sidi Slimane, and Larache—located in northwestern Morocco—were among the hardest hit. These areas form the backbone of Morocco’s red fruit production, accounting for a substantial share of national output of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. The Loukkos basin, in particular, is known for its intensive berry farming, supported by fertile soil, favorable climate, and well-developed irrigation systems.

Floodwaters inundated numerous farms across these regions, with some fields completely submerged and others suffering partial damage. Greenhouse structures, which play a critical role in protecting crops and extending the growing season, were damaged by strong winds and water accumulation. In several cases, entire greenhouse installations were rendered unusable, requiring costly repairs or replacement.

Agricultural professionals estimate that production losses may reach approximately 10 percent of the total seasonal output. While the extent of damage varies depending on farm location and infrastructure resilience, the cumulative effect has been enough to significantly reduce overall production volumes for the current season.

Early end to the strawberry season

One of the most immediate consequences of the flooding has been the premature end of the strawberry harvest for many producers. Strawberries, which are particularly sensitive to excessive moisture and flooding, were among the most affected crops. Waterlogged soil conditions damaged plant roots and reduced fruit quality, making continued harvesting unviable in several areas.

Blueberry production may partially recover later in the season, especially if weather conditions stabilize. However, recovery will depend on the extent of structural damage to greenhouses and the health of surviving plants. Even in cases where production resumes, overall yields are expected to remain below normal levels.

Raspberry production has also been affected, although the degree of impact varies depending on specific farm conditions and protective measures in place.

Export disruptions and supply chain challenges

Beyond the immediate production losses, the floods have disrupted Morocco’s red fruit export supply chains. Morocco is a major supplier of fresh berries to European markets, and any interruption in harvesting, packaging, or transportation can have rapid consequences for international distribution.

Export shipments were suspended for up to two weeks due to logistical disruptions caused by flooding and damaged infrastructure. These interruptions led to a temporary absence of Moroccan red fruits from European supermarket shelves, affecting supply availability during a critical export period.

At major export hubs such as the Tangier Med port, delays in shipping schedules compounded the problem. Some exporters were forced to discard entire shipments after prolonged delays prevented timely delivery to customers. Because red fruits are highly perishable, even short disruptions in the cold chain can render shipments unsuitable for sale.

Logistical challenges extended beyond the flooded areas themselves. Transportation routes, packaging operations, and labor availability were all affected, contributing to broader supply chain instability.

Labor shortages worsen operational difficulties

The floods also triggered humanitarian disruptions that further complicated agricultural operations. The evacuation of residents from heavily affected areas, including the city of Ksar El Kebir, led to shortages of seasonal agricultural labor.

Many farms rely on workers from nearby communities for harvesting, maintenance, and greenhouse repair. With large numbers of workers displaced or unable to reach farms, producers faced additional delays in harvesting crops and repairing damaged infrastructure.

The labor shortage slowed recovery efforts and increased the risk of further crop losses, especially for fruits that must be harvested within narrow time windows.

Structural vulnerability and climate risks

The recent floods highlight the structural vulnerability of Morocco’s red fruit sector to extreme weather events. While modern greenhouse systems provide protection against moderate weather fluctuations, they are not always sufficient to withstand severe storms and flooding.

In some cases, agricultural expansion into low-lying or flood-prone areas—partly encouraged by previous years of drought—may have increased exposure to flood risks. Fields located near rivers or drainage channels were particularly vulnerable.

Climate variability has become an increasingly important concern for agricultural producers across Morocco. Alternating periods of drought and heavy rainfall have created unpredictable growing conditions, complicating farm planning and increasing operational risks.

Economic importance of the red fruit sector

The red fruit industry plays a vital role in Morocco’s agricultural economy. Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries are among the country’s most valuable agricultural export products, generating significant revenue and supporting thousands of jobs in farming, packaging, logistics, and export services.

The sector has experienced rapid growth over the past decade, driven by strong demand in European markets and investments in modern agricultural technologies. Northern Morocco, particularly the Loukkos region, has become a major production hub serving international markets.

However, the recent flooding has underscored the importance of strengthening infrastructure resilience, improving drainage systems, and adopting climate-adaptation strategies to protect future production.

Recovery efforts and outlook

Producers have begun returning to their farms to assess damage and initiate repairs, but full recovery is expected to take time. Repairing greenhouse structures, restoring damaged fields, and replacing lost plants will require significant financial resources.

While some farms may resume limited production later in the season, overall output is expected to remain below previous projections. Export volumes may also take time to stabilize as producers rebuild capacity and restore supply chains.

The long-term outlook for Morocco’s red fruit sector remains positive due to strong international demand and established export networks. However, the recent flooding serves as a reminder of the growing impact of climate-related risks on agricultural production and highlights the need for continued investment in resilience and adaptation measures.

As producers work to recover from the damage, ensuring supply chain stability and strengthening climate resilience will be essential to safeguarding one of Morocco’s most important agricultural export industries.