Morocco breaks carrot export record for fifth straight year
Growing demand in Africa and new markets fuel continued rise in shipments.
MOROCCO – Morocco has once again made headlines with its carrot exports, setting a new national record for the fifth consecutive year.
In 2024, the country exported 69,000 tons of carrots, bringing in US$18.3 million, according to data from EastFruit. This marks a 35% increase compared to the previous year.
Over the past eight years, Morocco’s carrot export industry has grown by an average of 27% annually. What once was a seasonal trade now runs throughout the year.
Traditionally, exports peaked in July and August. However, in recent years, Morocco has extended its supply period, with significant volumes also shipped in November.
Industry players attribute this steady growth to improved production techniques and better logistics. “It’s about consistency and being able to meet market demand outside the usual peak months,” said a representative from a major Moroccan exporter.
African markets lead demand
Morocco’s carrots primarily head to African countries. While Europe remains a minor destination—accounting for only 1.7% of exports in 2024—the African market continues to grow.
Previously, Mauritania, Senegal, and Mali were the biggest buyers. But in the last two years, countries such as Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, and Ghana have joined the list, driving a wider demand.
In 2019, Moroccan carrots were exported to 13 countries. By 2024, that number had risen to 21. The wider reach has placed carrots among Morocco’s top three vegetable exports, just behind tomatoes and sweet peppers.
“New buyers are coming in as word spreads about the quality and reliability of Moroccan carrots,” said a trade official involved in export coordination. “It’s not just about volume; it’s about trust.”
Looking to Southeast Asia
Now, Moroccan exporters are preparing to expand even further. In April 2025, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), in partnership with FoodEx Morocco, will host a trade mission for Moroccan fruit and vegetable exporters to Southeast Asia.
This move comes at a time when Southeast Asia’s demand for fresh and frozen produce is growing rapidly.
“This trade mission is an important step,” a FoodEx Morocco spokesperson said. “It allows our exporters to form direct connections with fast-growing markets and understand what buyers in Asia are looking for.”
Global Market Insights
These developments come at a time when the global carrot market is showing strong momentum. The market was valued at US$1.83 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$2.92 billion by 2032.
The global carrot and turnip market is estimated to reach US$64.29 billion by 2030, up from US$52.82 billion in 2025. The carrot seed market is also on the rise, projected to grow from US$1.30 billion in 2023 to US$2.29 billion by 2033.
Morocco’s continued success shows how strategic planning, reliable supply, and expanding trade ties can support long-term growth in the fresh produce industry.
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