Prickly Pear Prices Soar in Morocco as Demand Outpaces Supply

The price of the prickly pear is soaring. It has gone from 2 or 3 dirhams to 8 dirhams. "Sellers are powerless in the face of this price increase, often caused by external factors like the cochineal, a pest insect that has severely affected cactus plantations in Morocco," explains Ahmed, a seller. This family man tries to relieve the pain of consumers by maintaining an affordable selling price, 4 dirhams and 5 dirhams per unit for his loyal customers. According to him, the use of the prickly pear in the cosmetic industry has contributed to this rise in prices, this fruit, rich in nutrients, having become popular for its beneficial properties for the skin and hair. This fruit is used in the manufacture of oil, cream, lotion and mask to moisturize the body, face and hair. Ahmed fears that prickly pears will soon become unavailable.

According to Amine, a 26-year-old Moroccan, this surge in prickly pear prices could accelerate. "Farmers could be tempted to reduce their production or turn to other more profitable crops, which could reduce supply and drive prices up even further," he estimates. Merchants could also see a drop in demand, which will affect their turnover. On the beaches, cornices and in public places, they struggle to attract customers despite the attractive smell and taste of the fruit.

Amine is trying to find out "whether this price increase is due to a scarcity of production, distribution problems or other economic factors." He calls for greater transparency so that consumers can understand the reasons for this increase and can demand measures to stabilize prices, thus allowing everyone to continue to enjoy this fruit.