Casablanca – Morocco has significantly strengthened its position in the global tomato market over the past decade, marking a 17.36% increase in production from 2014 to 2023. This growth has positioned Morocco as a rising competitor in the European Union (EU) market, challenging traditional powerhouses like Spain and the Netherlands, whose production has seen a decline during the same period.

A decade of growth

In 2014, Morocco’s tomato production stood at 1.23 billion kilos. By 2023, this number had soared to 1.44 billion kilos, a clear indicator of the country’s commitment to expanding its agricultural output. According to FAOSTAT data, this substantial increase comes at a time when other major European tomato producers are facing challenges.

Spain, historically one of Europe’s largest tomato producers, saw a notable decline of 18.83%, dropping from 4.88 billion kilos in 2014 to 3.96 billion kilos in 2023. Similarly, the Netherlands, another key player in the EU market, recorded a reduction of 19.93%, with production decreasing from 900 million kilos to 726 million kilos over the same period. These declines can be attributed to several factors, including rising production costs, environmental regulations, and increasing competition in the European market.

Turkey’s dominance and France’s stability

Turkey has remained a dominant force in the Mediterranean tomato market. The country produced 13.3 billion kilos of tomatoes in 2023, marking a 12.24% increase from 2014. This growth solidifies Turkey’s leading role in tomato production, thanks to its competitive pricing and vast production capacity.

Meanwhile, France, although not a major exporter in comparison, experienced a moderate 8% increase in production, rising from 608 million kilos in 2014 to 656 million kilos in 2023. This increase, while less significant than Morocco’s, reflects France’s ongoing investment in agricultural modernization, focusing on niche products and higher-value crops.

Morocco’s competitive edge

Morocco’s rise in global tomato production can be attributed to several factors. The country benefits from favorable climatic conditions and a combination of efficient agricultural practices that have improved yields. The proximity of Morocco to European markets is also crucial, reducing transportation costs and enabling quicker delivery times, which gives Moroccan producers a competitive edge in the EU market.

Additionally, Morocco’s agricultural sector has received significant government support, with policies aimed at improving infrastructure, technology, and export capabilities. These efforts have allowed Moroccan producers to meet the growing demand for fresh tomatoes in Europe, particularly in the face of declining production in traditional exporting countries.

Rising prices and domestic challenges

However, while Morocco is making strides on the international stage, it faces internal challenges related to the volatility of domestic tomato prices. This month, as Ramadan approaches, the prices of tomatoes in Morocco have surged, putting pressure on consumers. Wholesale prices have climbed to $22 per crate, equating to $0.8 per kilogram. Retail prices have also jumped to $1 or more per kilogram, exacerbating the financial strain on households.

This price volatility has sparked concerns among local consumers and farmers alike, especially during the peak demand season. The increasing cost of production, coupled with the unpredictable nature of global markets, means that balancing both domestic needs and international exports will remain a delicate task for Morocco’s agricultural sector.

Looking ahead

Despite these challenges, Morocco’s continued growth in tomato production signifies its emerging importance in global agriculture. As European producers reduce their output, Morocco and other countries like Turkey are stepping up to fill the gap, meeting the growing demand for tomatoes, particularly in the EU.

With ongoing investments in technology and sustainable practices, Morocco’s agricultural sector is poised for even greater success in the coming years. However, managing domestic price stability while expanding exports will be key to ensuring that Morocco can continue to thrive in the competitive global tomato market.