Moroccan Watermelon Exports Surge Despite Climate Challenges, Outpacing European Rivals

The campaign is progressing at a steady pace. After Zagora and Taroudant, the harvests continue in the north of the kingdom. According to the specialized platform East Fruit, the harvest is underway in the Kariat Ba Mhamed region, facing a heat wave (45°C). "Everything is going well during the fruit development, but climatic accidents disrupt the harvest," explains an exporter interviewed by the platform. Despite these climatic hazards, the yields remain high compared to last year. "These problems are not serious enough to jeopardize the campaign," assures the exporter.

Contrary to last year where the MWMV virus caused havoc, its spread has been brought under control this year, particularly among early producers in Taroudant, which has significantly reduced losses. There is also a progression in exports. According to East Fruit, watermelon exports in the Berkane region have already increased by 17% compared to the same period last year, while the campaign is not over. "The final result will undoubtedly be very satisfactory," rejoices an exporter.

The campaign will continue in Berkane, before reaching Larache where a significant and quality harvest is expected. Nearly 80% of the watermelons in this region are destined for export. Moreover, Moroccan watermelons face fierce competition from Italy and Greece on European markets, which "lowers the average price from $0.95 to $0.80 per kilo," says an exporter, assuring that this situation does not affect Morocco and that the demand for Moroccan watermelons remains strong in Western Europe, the Nordic countries and Eastern Europe.