Morocco Surges Past Spain in EU Watermelon Market, Exports Soar 53%

Moroccan watermelon exports to the European Union (EU) are exploding. Morocco sold 130,600 tons of watermelons to EU member countries between January and June 2025, an increase of 53.49% compared to the same period in 2024, according to data published by the specialized website Hortoinfo, based on Euroestacom (ICEX-Eurostat) statistics. Conversely, Spanish watermelon exports to the EU reached 150,550 tons of watermelons, a decrease of 42.47% compared to last year, a loss of more than 111,000 tons. Despite this decline, Spain remains the leading supplier to the EU with a significant market share: 21.85%.

With 19% of the European market, Morocco is the second largest supplier to the EU. In value, Moroccan exports generated 162.43 million euros, more than those of Spain (153.27 million euros). This is explained by a higher average price of 1.24 €/kg compared to 1.02 €/kg for Spanish watermelons. The price differential is notably justified by increased demand for Moroccan watermelons, perceived as more qualitative on certain markets.

The Netherlands takes third place with 65,010 tons, down 18.08%. They owe this position largely to re-exports, as Holland is not a major producer of watermelons. Turkey takes fourth place with 44,040 tons, a slight increase of 4.75% compared to 2024, while Germany occupies the 5th place with 37,931 tons.