Casablanca – Morocco has secured its position as the top supplier of fresh fruits andvegetables to Spain, continuing to grow its presence in the European market throughout 2024. According to the latest report from the Spanish Federation of Fruit and Vegetable Producers and Exporters, Morocco’s exports to Spain totaled around $875 million from January to October 2024. This represents a 13% increase compared to the same period in 2023, underscoring Morocco’s growing importance in supplying fresh produce to Spain, its key trading partner in Europe.

Overall, Spain’s total imports of fruits and vegetables increased by 12%, reaching a value of approximately $4.35 billion in the first ten months of 2024. Morocco played a major role in this growth, accounting for 66% of Spain’s imports from non-EU countries, highlighting its dominant position in meeting Spain’s fresh produce demand.

The country’s strength in the market is further reflected by its significant share of Spain’s total fruit and vegetable imports. Of the $2.89 billion worth of imports from non-EU countries, Morocco alone accounted for a large portion, emphasizing its dominance. In comparison, Spain’s imports from the European Union amounted to $1.52 billion, making up 34% of the total.

One key example of Morocco’s influence is in the pepper market, where it has become the leading supplier. Spanish importers spent nearly $105 million on Moroccan peppers alone during the first ten months of 2024. Morocco accounted for a dominant 92% of Spain’s total pepper imports, showcasing its significant role in satisfying the high demand for this vegetable.

Other key suppliers to Spain include Peru, which ranks second with around $550 million in exports, reflecting a 22% growth. France, holding third place, increased its exports by 22% to reach approximately $455 million.

Portugal remains in fourth place with $370 million worth of exports to Spain, up by 19% from the previous year. Meanwhile, the Netherlands, despite being a major player in the European fresh produce market, saw a slight 3% decline in its exports to Spain, bringing its total to $220 million.

Regarding volume, Spain’s overall fruit and vegetable imports reached 3.5 million tons by October 2024, marking a 7% increase compared to the previous year. Of this, 1.8 million tons came from non-EU countries, while 1.7 million tons were sourced from within the EU.

These figures reflect Morocco’s growing influence in the European market, particularly in the Spanish fruit and vegetable sector. With continued growth in exports, including a strong presence in the pepper market, Morocco is firmly established as a key supplier of fresh produce to Spain, cementing its position as a vital player in global agricultural trade.