Casablanca – Morocco has significantly expanded its agricultural footprint in Russia, with mandarin exports recording a sharp increase since the beginning of 2025. According to Russia’s Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (Rosselkhoznadzor), shipments from Morocco rose by 74% compared with the same period in 2024, reaching 31.6 thousand tonnes, up from 18.2 thousand tonnes. This surge reflects growing demand among Russian consumers for Moroccan citrus and highlights Morocco’s competitive position in one of the world’s largest fruit markets.

The Russian mandarin market has seen contrasting trends among suppliers. Imports from South Africa and China rose by 42% and 27.5%, respectively, while imports from Egypt dropped sharply by 51%, reaching 64.5 thousand tonnes. Overall, Russia imported 594.3 thousand tonnes of mandarins between January 1 and November 23, 2025, marking a 9% decline compared with the same period in 2024. In November alone, 120.6 thousand tonnes were delivered to the Russian market. The main suppliers remain Turkey, with a 47% share of total imports, followed by South Africa (14%), China (13%), Egypt (11%), and Morocco (5%).

These figures underline Morocco’s ability to compete effectively in a market marked by intense international rivalry, particularly from regions specializing in citrus production. Moroccan mandarins have distinguished themselves through quality and consistency, enabling producers to strengthen their market share even amid shifting global trade patterns.

The growth in mandarin exports is part of a broader pattern of expanding trade between Morocco and Russia. During 2024, Russia exported around $280 million worth of agricultural products to Morocco, mainly wheat, while Morocco simultaneously increased exports of vegetables, fruit, seafood, and citrus to Russia. In the first half of 2025, trade between the two countries rose by 73% compared with the same period in 2024, reflecting heightened interest from Russian companies in North Africa and Morocco in particular.

This trade dynamic illustrates a strategic shift in Morocco’s approach to global agricultural markets. By diversifying export partners and targeting high-demand regions such as Russia, Morocco is not only enhancing its economic ties with key partners but also securing a more resilient position in global supply chains. The Russian market, in particular, has emerged as a strategic destination for Moroccan citrus, offering opportunities for growth in both volume and value.

Analysts note that Morocco’s success in Russia is driven by several factors, including investment in citrus production, logistical efficiency, and the ability to meet international quality standards. The country’s key citrus-producing regions have been able to scale up production while maintaining quality, enabling Moroccan exporters to compete with larger global suppliers such as Turkey, South Africa, and China.

In addition to mandarins, Morocco’s agricultural exports to Russia encompass a wider range of products, including vegetables, other fruits, and seafood. This diversification is part of a deliberate strategy to strengthen Morocco’s global agricultural presence, reduce dependency on traditional markets, and adapt to evolving geopolitical and economic conditions.

The rapid growth of Moroccan mandarin exports to Russia also signals broader opportunities for the country’s agricultural sector. With continued focus on quality, logistics, and market development, Morocco is positioning itself as a reliable and competitive supplier in key international markets, while simultaneously fostering deeper economic ties with strategic partners.

The 2025 surge in mandarin exports underscores Morocco’s ability to leverage its agricultural strengths, adapt to changing market dynamics, and expand its influence in major consumer markets such as Russia. This trend aligns with the country’s long-term vision of consolidating its agricultural sector on a global scale while diversifying trade and strengthening economic resilience.