Morocco’s Citrus Industry Faces Crisis as Russia-Ukraine Conflict Halts Exports

As if the intense drought, the rise in transport prices and other problems related to fruit cultivation were not enough, Moroccan citrus producers have to face the difficulties linked to the crisis shaking Ukraine and Russia. Like many countries, Morocco, which maintains relations with the two countries in conflict in many sectors, will not be spared.

Indeed, "given the complete cessation of export activity caused by this conflict, citrus growers’ incomes would be down about 20%," reveals Ahmed Derrab, secretary general of ASPAM. According to him, the meeting on Monday will make it possible to take the necessary measures to remedy the difficulties faced by producers, which have intensified with the Russian-Ukrainian crisis.

According to data published by the Foreign Exchange Office, in 2021, exports amounted to 654 MDH and mainly include citrus fruits, fresh or dried fruits, raw or refined sugar, strawberries and raspberries, parts for cars and passenger vehicles. Citrus fruits sold to Russia total 323 MDH, or nearly 50% of total exports to Russia.

"The volume of citrus exports in the Oriental region has fallen by 40% compared to the previous season. This situation is the result of several factors," says Mohamed El Ghazi, administrative and financial manager at ASPAM. In addition to the exorbitant production cost, Moroccan producers also have to face high freight rates this year.