Casablanca – Morocco’s lemon exports have recorded one of their strongest performances in recent years during the 2025/2026 agricultural season, supported by rising international demand and continued expansion into new global markets. The sector’s momentum reflects the broader strengthening of Morocco’s agricultural export base, particularly within the citrus segment, which remains a key contributor to foreign currency earnings and rural employment.

Between October 2025 and March 2026, Morocco exported approximately 11,400 metric tons of lemons, generating more than $6 million in export revenues. This result already exceeds the total volume recorded during the previous full season and represents a significant increase compared with earlier years, confirming the upward trajectory of the sector.

Strong seasonal performance and rising competitiveness

The current campaign has seen exports increase by around 17% year-on-year, while volumes have more than doubled compared with the 2023/2024 season. This sustained growth highlights improvements in production efficiency, post-harvest handling, and export logistics, which have helped Moroccan citrus products remain competitive in international markets.

February 2026 marked the peak of the season, with approximately 4,200 tons exported in a single month. This seasonal surge reflects the typical winter demand cycle for citrus fruits, as colder temperatures in importing countries tend to increase consumption of vitamin-rich produce such as lemons.

Industry data suggest that Moroccan exporters have been increasingly able to align supply with these seasonal demand patterns, strengthening their position in both established and emerging markets.

Russia remains the leading destination

One of the defining features of the 2025/2026 campaign is the continued dominance of Russia as the largest importer of Moroccan lemons. The country accounts for nearly half of total exports, with its purchases increasing significantly compared with previous seasons.

This strong reliance on the Russian market highlights its strategic importance for Moroccan citrus exporters, particularly during periods of high demand when European markets become more competitive.

Expanding presence in Europe and Africa

Alongside Russia, Moroccan lemons continue to perform strongly across a range of European and African destinations.

Mauritania remains one of the key importers, benefiting from geographic proximity and established trade flows with Morocco. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom continues to be an important market, although imports have declined compared with the previous season.

A notable development this year is the sharp increase in exports to Spain, where demand for Moroccan lemons has expanded significantly despite Spain’s own strong citrus production base. This growth reflects increasing competitiveness of Moroccan produce in nearby European markets.

France remains among the top five destinations, while additional demand has been recorded in Italy, as well as several West African markets including Mali, Nigeria, and The Gambia.

This diversification demonstrates Morocco’s ongoing efforts to reduce reliance on a limited number of buyers and expand its footprint across multiple regions.

Saudi Arabia emerges as a high-growth market

One of the most striking trends of the season is the rapid expansion of exports to Saudi Arabia, where demand for Moroccan lemons has increased exponentially compared with previous years.

This surge positions Saudi Arabia as one of the most dynamic new growth markets for Moroccan citrus exports and reflects broader opportunities across Gulf countries, where demand for imported fresh agricultural products continues to rise.

Mixed performance across traditional markets

Despite overall growth, some traditional destinations have experienced declines in import volumes. Markets such as Canada, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and Burkina Faso recorded lower shipments compared with previous seasons.

These variations reflect shifting trade dynamics influenced by logistical costs, regional competition, and changing consumption patterns.

Approaching a historic export milestone

With 11,400 tons already exported in just six months, Morocco is moving closer to its historical record of 17,100 tons, achieved during the 2019/2020 campaign. If current trends continue, the country could surpass this benchmark before the end of the season.

Such an outcome would confirm the strengthening position of Moroccan lemons in global agricultural trade and highlight the sector’s ability to adapt to changing international market conditions.

Structural support and long-term outlook

The growth of lemon exports is supported by broader national agricultural strategies aimed at improving productivity, expanding irrigation efficiency, and strengthening export infrastructure. These efforts have contributed to enhancing the resilience and competitiveness of Morocco’s citrus industry despite ongoing challenges such as water scarcity and climate variability.

Looking ahead, continued diversification of export markets, combined with improvements in logistics and production systems, is expected to play a central role in sustaining growth. The lemon sector is increasingly seen as part of Morocco’s broader strategy to expand its high-value agricultural exports and reinforce its position in global food supply chains.