Moroccan Berry Crops Hit Hard: Storms Destroy 20% of Export Production

The storm destroyed 9,000 hectares of ripe strawberries, raspberries and blueberries in the Gharb region, according to a joint press release on Wednesday from the Moroccan Association of Berry Producers (AMPFR) and the Moroccan Association of Berry Packers-Exporters (AMCEFR).

The gusts of wind, which reached up to 110 kilometers per hour in these areas, caused "significant damage" to producers of these berries, 90% of which are destined for export. A loss of nearly 20% of the raspberry production was recorded, the organizations also note, citing the deterioration and deformation of 15% of the metal structures of the tunnels, uprooted plants, etc.

The power outage, which lasted nearly two days in the Larache region, "aggravated the situation," as it prevented the operation of irrigation systems, denounces the note. The signatory associations call on the authorities to support the affected farmers, a situation which, according to Amine Bennani, the president of the AMPFR, adds to the poor agricultural season recorded last season due to drought.