Casablanca – Morocco’s lemon exports recorded a strong recovery during the 2024/2025 agricultural season, reaching their highest level in five years and marking a clear turnaround after several consecutive years of decline. According to data published by the specialized agricultural market platform EastFruit, the Kingdom exported approximately 9,700 tons of lemons between November 2024 and October 2025, generating more than $5 million in export revenue.

This performance represents an increase of about 80% compared with the previous 2023/2024 season, when exports had dropped to approximately 5,300 tons, their lowest level in recent years. The latest figures confirm a decisive reversal in the downward trend that had affected Morocco’s lemon export sector since 2020, highlighting renewed momentum across the citrus value chain.

Clear recovery after prolonged decline

The recent growth comes after four consecutive seasons of contraction. Morocco’s lemon exports had reached near-record levels in the 2019/2020 season, with shipments totaling around 17,000 tons. However, exports declined steadily in the following years, reflecting a combination of climatic pressures, production constraints, and changing international market conditions.

The 2024/2025 season therefore represents a major turning point. Not only did export volumes increase significantly, but export revenues also exceeded $5 million, reflecting improved international demand and stronger pricing conditions.

Despite the recent recovery, export volumes remain below the historic peak recorded during the 2010/2011 season, when Morocco exported approximately 18,000 tons of lemons. Nevertheless, the latest results signal a clear return to growth and confirm the sector’s capacity to regain competitiveness after several difficult years.

Improved export timing and supply management

In addition to higher volumes, export patterns during the 2024/2025 season showed structural improvements. Traditionally, Morocco’s lemon export campaign peaked in February before declining sharply starting in April. However, the latest season was characterized by a more balanced distribution of shipments across several months.

April emerged as the most active month for lemon exports, with strong shipment volumes continuing into May. This more even distribution reflects improved production planning, better coordination between producers and exporters, and enhanced responsiveness to international demand.

The smoother export flow also reduces logistical bottlenecks and helps optimize supply chains, allowing Moroccan exporters to maintain a more stable presence in global markets throughout the season.

Mauritania remains leading export destination

Geographically, Mauritania maintained its position as Morocco’s largest export market for lemons, accounting for approximately 45% of total shipments during the 2024/2025 season. This marked the fourth consecutive year of growth in Moroccan lemon exports to Mauritania, confirming the importance of regional markets in supporting the sector.

The United Kingdom ranked as the second-largest destination, with imports exceeding 1,000 tons for the first time in 17 years. This development reflects renewed demand from European markets and highlights Morocco’s continued access to diversified export destinations.

Russia represented approximately 9.2% of Morocco’s total lemon exports, maintaining its role as an important market. Meanwhile, the Netherlands and Canada resumed imports of Moroccan lemons after periods of reduced activity, signaling improved competitiveness and stronger international demand.

In contrast, exports to France declined by about 20%, illustrating shifts in trade dynamics and increasing competition in certain European markets.

Growing diversification of export markets

One of the most notable developments during the latest export season was the expansion of Morocco’s presence in smaller and emerging markets. Shipments to secondary destinations doubled compared with previous seasons, reflecting a deliberate strategy to diversify export outlets.

This diversification reduces dependence on a limited number of major markets and enhances the resilience of Morocco’s citrus export sector against external shocks, such as fluctuations in demand, currency volatility, or trade disruptions.

Expanding into new markets also creates additional growth opportunities and strengthens Morocco’s long-term position in global citrus trade.

Broader recovery across agricultural export sectors

The rebound in lemon exports is part of a broader recovery trend across several Moroccan agricultural export sectors. Improved export performance in citrus and other fruits reflects favorable international demand, improved production management, and efforts to enhance export competitiveness.

Morocco’s citrus sector remains a key component of the country’s agricultural economy, contributing to rural employment, export revenues, and foreign currency inflows. The recovery in lemon exports therefore supports both economic activity and the stability of agricultural communities.

Industry stakeholders continue to focus on improving productivity, expanding export markets, and strengthening supply chains to sustain growth over the coming years.

Positive outlook for the coming seasons

The strong performance recorded during the 2024/2025 season confirms Morocco’s ability to restore growth in lemon exports after a prolonged downturn. While export volumes have not yet returned to historic peak levels, the recovery signals improved sector resilience and renewed export potential.

Continued diversification of markets, improved supply management, and favorable global demand conditions are expected to support further growth in Morocco’s lemon export sector.

As international demand for citrus products remains strong, Morocco appears well positioned to consolidate its presence in global markets and strengthen its role as a competitive exporter of lemons in the coming years.