Spanish Pepper Growers Pull Crops as Some Explore Moving Production to Morocco
In Andalusia, efforts to combat an insect that attacks peppers have already led to 922 inspections and 272 penalties. Production difficulties persist, while Spanish farmers are exploring cultivation opportunities in Morocco.
The pepper season is becoming more difficult in Spanish greenhouses. Some growers are delaying planting, while others are switching to zucchini. Some have even begun pulling up their crops earlier than planned because of damage caused by Thrips parvispinus, an insect that is particularly difficult to control.
“We are already seeing some growers clear out their greenhouses earlier than usual because of severe infestations,” said Luis Ramos of Dutch company MG Fruit in an interview published Thursday, 29 October, by FreshPlaza.
The situation has prompted action from the Andalusian authorities. On 15 October, the regional government reported 922 inspections and 272 penalties for failing to comply with mandatory measures to combat the pest, particularly when pulling up crops. In August, it also announced €2.9 million in aid for growers who had lost their entire pepper crop.
On 27 October, agricultural organizations and the Andalusian administration were still calling for plant-protection solutions. Their request for temporary authorization to use an active substance, spirotetramat, had been rejected by the Spanish government, according to the Junta de Andalucia.
Tomatoes are also affected by the difficulties. In the Netherlands, small varieties are selling for between 17 and 18 euros per three kilos, while Spanish vine tomatoes are reaching three euros per kilo. The price pressure comes as Spanish growers are reducing their cherry tomato acreage.
Morocco features in Spanish growers’ plans
After several seasons of insufficient volumes in Spain, industry professionals are looking for other supply options. Luis Ramos says many Spanish growers are now exploring cultivation projects in Morocco or Turkey.
On Bladi.net : Spanish farmer accuses companies of moving production to Morocco for cheaper labor
His company already imports Moroccan products. It is also seeing Turkish production increase, with more trade this season than last year. The initiatives involving Morocco remain, at this stage, potential development opportunities.
Morocco already plays a major role in Spain’s pepper market. According to a study published in August by Hortoinfo, Spain imported 83.34 million kilos of peppers in the first half of 2026, of which 79.01 million came from Morocco. The Kingdom thus accounted for 94.81% of Spain’s pepper imports.
On Bladi.net : Spain produces peppers, but 95% of those it imports come from Morocco
Spanish purchases of Moroccan peppers increased by more than 134% compared with the first half of 2017, rising from 33.74 million to 79.01 million kilos. Their value reached 116.33 million euros in the first six months of 2026.
