Morocco suspends new tomato export permits to Africa as prices rise, but leaves Europe shipments untouched
On Thursday, November 5, Morocco decided to temporarily curb tomato exports to African markets to contain soaring prices at home. Shipments to Europe remain authorized.
Moroccan exporters serving African countries were informed of the decision, Lahoucine Aderdour, head of the Interprofessional Federation of the Fruit and Vegetable Sector (FIFEL), told Reuters. A government source said the measure aims to strengthen supplies to the domestic market and regulate shipments abroad.
On Bladi.net : Tomatoes: Morocco does not stop exports
Specifically, new export permits for Africa have been suspended. Trucks that already have valid licenses can continue operating. Industry professionals were notified on Wednesday evening, with the measure taking effect overnight from November 4 to 5.
The rise in tomato prices in Morocco is due in particular to lower yields in Souss-Massa, the kingdom’s main production region. Farmers are also facing higher fertilizer and fuel costs, increasing the cost of agricultural operations.
Tomatoes destined for Europe unaffected
The approach to European markets is different. Tomatoes sold in Europe, where prices are higher, are exempt from the new restriction. The European Union is a major market for Morocco’s sector, with 503,000 tonnes of tomatoes imported during the 2025-2026 season.
The decision comes as the government seeks to control food prices. A few days earlier, Minister of Economy and Finance Fouzi Lekjaa had announced regulation of food exports to help bring prices down. Morocco had already restricted some tomato shipments to Africa last April.
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A government source told Reuters that the suspension is temporary and that the affected exports will resume soon. Operators have not been given a specific date for the resumption of new permits being issued.
