Casablanca – Morocco’s blueberry industry has undergone remarkable transformation and growth over the past fifteen years, evolving from obscurity to becoming the world’s fourth-largest exporter of blueberries. This success story is characterized by surging demand both internationally and domestically, with Moroccan blueberries reaching unprecedented levels of export.

In 2023, Moroccan blueberry exports saw substantial expansion, particularly in Asian markets. Notably, shipments to Thailand nearly tripled compared to previous years, with a record-breaking 30-ton shipment. Morocco also made strides in Indonesia, initiating exports with a 720 kg shipment. The Kingdom exported 1,400 tons of blueberries to South Asia (excluding Vietnam), representing a 50% increase from the prior year.

Domestically, blueberry production has grown exponentially, expanding by 19 times over fifteen years. Cultivated areas have increased by 10 to 15% in the last five years, with the current season dedicating approximately 5,300 hectares to blueberry cultivation—surpassing strawberry and raspberry acreage.

Agadir serves as the heart of Moroccan blueberry production, maintaining stable harvests despite a more subdued start in the Gharb region. Overall production, including processed goods and stock, is expected to increase by 19%.

This remarkable growth is driven by multinational corporations leveraging advanced technologies and benefiting from Morocco’s geographic advantages, including proximity to Europe, competitive labor costs, and local expertise. Producers anticipate a 17% yield increase this season, targeting around 10,910 tons of fresh blueberries.

Additionally, other blueberry-exporting nations like Australia and Zimbabwe have significantly increased their market shares, with Zimbabwe experiencing a 74% export surge in 2023. China also tripled its blueberry shipments, albeit with more modest volumes.

Despite challenges such as adverse weather conditions and labor shortages impacting the season, Moroccan blueberry producers demonstrate resilience. Key markets for Moroccan blueberries remain the United Kingdom, Europe, and Russia, which favor larger-sized blueberries. Efforts are underway to expand into the Middle Eastern and Canadian markets, with negotiations ongoing in China for further growth opportunities in Asia.

Morocco’s blueberry industry stands as a testament to strategic growth fueled by increased production, expanding market reach, and strong global partnerships, solidifying its position as a significant player in the global blueberry export sector.