Casablanca – Morocco has once again set a new milestone in its agricultural exports, achieving a record-high 69,000 tons of carrots shipped in 2024. This impressive export figure, valued at $18.3 million, marks a 35% increase compared to the previous year, further solidifying Morocco’s position as a key player in the global agricultural market. The growth in carrot exports reflects a broader trend of increasing export volumes and expanding market reach for Moroccan produce.

A strong and consistent growth trajectory

For the fifth consecutive year, Morocco has broken its own carrot export record, showcasing consistent growth in the sector. Since 2016, Moroccan carrot exports have been growing at an average annual rate of 27%, a figure that highlights the sector’s resilience and the country’s ability to scale up production and meet international demand. The increase in exports is seen as a testament to the growing reputation of Moroccan carrots, which are valued for their quality and consistent availability.

Morocco’s success in carrot exports is part of a larger trend in its agricultural sector, where the country has been diversifying its agricultural production and export markets. Over the years, Moroccan agriculture has continued to adapt to global market demands, positioning the Kingdom as one of the leading exporters of fruits and vegetables in the Mediterranean region.

Expanding export markets

Historically, the main markets for Moroccan carrots have been concentrated in West Africa, with countries such as Mauritania, Senegal, and Mali accounting for the majority of exports. However, recent years have seen significant diversification in the export destinations. In 2024, Moroccan carrots were shipped to 21 countries, compared to just 13 countries five years ago. This expansion into new markets, including Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, and Ghana, has helped fuel the growth of carrot exports, as more African countries are recognizing the quality and reliability of Moroccan produce.

While African markets continue to dominate, the European market for Moroccan carrots remains relatively small. In 2024, Europe accounted for only 1.7% of total carrot exports. Despite the limited presence in Europe, Morocco’s focus on sub-Saharan Africa remains a strategic decision, as the region’s demand for high-quality agricultural products continues to grow. The country’s ability to maintain a strong foothold in these markets demonstrates its adaptability and the increasing international demand for its agricultural exports.

Year-round export capacity

A key factor in Morocco’s success in carrot exports is its ability to supply markets year-round. Traditionally, the peak export season for Moroccan carrots occurred during the summer months, particularly July and August. However, over the past three years, Morocco has extended its export season to include the fall months, with November now being one of the peak export months. This extension of the export window allows Morocco to meet the ongoing demand from international markets and ensure a steady supply of high-quality carrots throughout the year.

The consistent production and export of carrots throughout the year also highlight the country’s strong agricultural infrastructure and the ability of local farmers to meet the demands of international buyers. The availability of Moroccan carrots in markets beyond the traditional summer season has further solidified the country’s reputation as a reliable supplier of fresh produce.

Contributing to Morocco’s agricultural economy

Carrots have now become one of the top three vegetable exports from Morocco, following tomatoes and sweet peppers. This ranking underscores the growing importance of carrots in the Kingdom’s agricultural sector, contributing significantly to the country’s overall export economy. The success of the carrot export industry also reflects the larger trends in Morocco’s agricultural sector, where fruits and vegetables are becoming increasingly important in driving economic growth and job creation.

The carrot export sector has provided local farmers with new opportunities for income generation, while also supporting Morocco’s agricultural policies aimed at expanding production and exports. This success also highlights the country’s competitive advantage in the agricultural industry, thanks to favorable climatic conditions, competitive logistics costs, and an export strategy that focuses on responsive and market-oriented production.

Looking ahead: Opportunities for further growth

Looking to the future, the Moroccan carrot sector is well-positioned for further growth. As international demand for fresh produce continues to rise, Morocco’s ability to diversify its export markets and expand its production capacity will be key to maintaining its competitive edge. The country’s focus on expanding its agricultural exports to Southeast Asia, in collaboration with organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), shows the country’s commitment to exploring new and emerging markets for its agricultural products.

The success of Moroccan carrot exports serves as a model for other agricultural sectors within the country. With the right mix of high-quality production, strategic market diversification, and efficient logistics, Morocco has established itself as a leading exporter of vegetables in the Mediterranean region and beyond.

Morocco’s carrot export sector has experienced remarkable growth, marked by record-breaking figures and expanded market access. As the country continues to invest in its agricultural sector and explore new markets, Moroccan carrots are likely to remain an important component of the Kingdom’s agricultural exports for the future.