Casablanca – Moroccan lemon exports to the United Kingdom reached unprecedented levels during the 2024/2025 trade season, marking the country’s strongest performance in nearly two decades. Between November 2024 and August 2025, Morocco shipped approximately 1,200 tons of lemons to the UK, generating an estimated $920,000 in revenue, according to EastFruit data. This represents a fortyfold increase compared to the previous season and surpasses the total Moroccan lemon exports to the UK over the past decade.

The surge in exports marks a historic achievement for Morocco’s citrus sector. It surpasses the previous peak set in the 2007/2008 season by 12 percent, reaffirming the country’s ability to compete in one of Europe’s most important fruit markets. Analysts note that this growth highlights the resilience and adaptability of Moroccan producers, who have successfully leveraged logistical improvements, strategic diversification, and quality enhancement to meet increasing international demand.

Rapid climb in supplier rankings

Morocco’s strong performance has also been reflected in its position among global lemon suppliers to the UK. In the 2020/2021 season, Morocco ranked 31st among lemon exporters to the British market. Within the first ten months of the 2024/2025 season, the country had already climbed to 11th place, surpassing established producers such as Vietnam and Mexico, and edging closer to the top ten. While Spain, South Africa, and Brazil continue to dominate the UK lemon market—accounting for over 80 percent of imports—the rise of Morocco indicates growing competition and the potential for a sustained presence.

EastFruit analysts emphasize that this rapid ascent is particularly notable given the challenges faced by Moroccan citrus producers in recent years, including irregular weather patterns, droughts, and intensified competition from Iberian suppliers. The rebound demonstrates the sector’s capacity to recover and adapt, positioning Moroccan lemons as a high-quality alternative in international markets.

Broader context of Moroccan fruit exports

The success of lemons in the UK reflects a broader expansion of Moroccan fruit exports. Over the past few years, Morocco has strengthened its presence in the British market with other high-value fruits. Since 2023, the country has been the leading supplier of raspberries to the UK, and in the 2024/2025 season, it also became the top supplier of blueberries. Additionally, Morocco exports strawberries, mandarins, watermelon, and avocados to the UK, highlighting its diversified fruit portfolio.

The UK has emerged as a key destination for Moroccan fruits, ranking immediately after Spain and France in terms of imports. This trend reflects a growing focus on high-quality and sustainable produce, as British consumers increasingly demand a diverse range of fresh fruits sourced from reliable suppliers. Moroccan producers have responded by improving post-harvest logistics, enhancing quality standards, and targeting markets with strong growth potential post-Brexit.

Implications for the Moroccan citrus sector

The record lemon exports have broader implications for Morocco’s citrus sector. They signal a reversal of a multi-year decline in lemon shipments, which had decreased steadily over the past four seasons due to adverse climatic conditions and market competition. By achieving such a significant rebound, the Moroccan citrus sector demonstrates its ability to restore market share and adapt production to international demand.

Furthermore, the performance underscores Morocco’s potential to compete in high-value markets. The sector’s recovery contributes to strengthening the country’s overall agri-food exports, increasing revenue, and supporting rural employment in lemon-producing regions. Analysts suggest that continued investments in logistics, quality certification, and market diversification could enable Morocco to solidify its position in the UK and other European markets.

Looking ahead

While the final rankings may shift by the end of the 2024/2025 season, the current figures reflect a significant transformation in Moroccan lemon exports. The country’s success demonstrates not only the resilience of its agricultural sector but also the effectiveness of strategies aimed at increasing competitiveness, improving quality, and expanding international market access.

As Moroccan lemons regain visibility in the UK market, the sector is poised for sustained growth, offering new opportunities for producers and contributing to Morocco’s broader agricultural and export objectives. With strategic planning and continued adaptation, Morocco’s citrus sector could further strengthen its role in global fruit markets, ensuring long-term economic benefits for the country.