Casablanca – Morocco has solidified its position as the leading supplier of cucumbers to Spain, achieving a remarkable milestone during the 2023-2024 agricultural season. The Kingdom exported a record 13.64 million kilograms of cucumbers, accounting for 79.41% of Spain’s total cucumber imports. This generated revenues of approximately $17.5 million, with an average price of $1.28 per kilogram.

Unmatched growth in exports

Over the last decade, Moroccan cucumber exports to Spain have increased by an impressive 143%, according to data from the specialized agricultural platform HortoInfo. This growth highlights Morocco’s strategic role in Spain’s agricultural supply chain.

In total, Spain imported 17.17 million kilograms of cucumbers during the season, with an overall market value of $22.2 million. Moroccan exports accounted for the lion’s share, leaving other competitors far behind.

Competition trails behind

Portugal ranked as Spain’s second-largest cucumber supplier, contributing 2.19 million kilograms (12.74% of imports), valued at $2.6 million and priced at an average of $1.19 per kilogram. Germany followed with just 318,524 kilograms (1.85% of imports), valued at $573,000 and priced at $1.79 per kilogram.

Smaller contributions came from Slovenia, which supplied 213,136 kilograms for $355,000, and Senegal, with 184,200 kilograms valued at $272,000. Both countries’ cucumbers were priced at an average of $1.62 and $1.47 per kilogram, respectively.

Why Morocco stands out

Morocco’s dominance can be attributed to its proximity to Spain, efficient logistics, and competitive pricing. These advantages enable Moroccan exporters to meet the growing demand in Spain quickly and cost-effectively.

Leadership beyond cucumbers

Morocco’s agricultural success extends beyond cucumbers. The Kingdom also leads in other sectors, such as bell peppers, accounting for over 91.69% of Spain’s imports of the product. Moroccan bell pepper exports during the past season reached 93.78 million kilograms, generating $122.4 million in revenue.

Despite challenges posed by climate change, Morocco continues to showcase resilience and adaptability, maintaining its reputation as a reliable supplier in global agricultural markets.

A strategic partnership

As Spain’s demand for fresh produce grows, Morocco’s role as a key supplier will likely strengthen further. With a consistent focus on quality, sustainability, and efficiency, Morocco is poised to maintain its leadership in the agricultural export sector.