Morocco’s asparagus industry set to break export records
MOROCCO – Morocco’s agricultural sector is experiencing a significant rise in fresh asparagus exports, with the country on course to break its own record for the fourth consecutive season.
According to EastFruit, an agricultural analyst firm, Morocco’s asparagus exports have already surpassed figures from the first half of the current season, with 320 tons shipped between November 2022 and March 2024 compared to 260 tons in the same period last year.
This growth indicates that Morocco could achieve a new record by the end of the export season in August.
Traditionally, Moroccan asparagus was harvested between January and March. However, the past two years have seen strong sales extending through May, offering a longer window for both domestic and international buyers.
The European Union (EU) remains a key market, with Moroccan producers benefiting from an early harvest season.
Spain has been the biggest importer, using Moroccan asparagus for both consumption and re-export to other European countries.
However, this season has seen a shift in export destinations, with Belgium now the top recipient, taking over half of all shipments. Spain still holds a significant share, with smaller amounts going to France, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.
This shift in export destinations may be due to changes in buyer preferences, pricing strategies, or logistical considerations. Further analysis is needed to understand the exact reasons behind this development.
Beyond Europe, Morocco is also venturing into new markets in the Middle East. Although exports to this region are still modest, there have been initial advances.
Small shipments have been made to Bahrain and Qatar over the past two seasons, and this year saw 1.7 tons of asparagus exported to Jordan.
This diversification strategy highlights Morocco’s ambition to expand its export footprint beyond traditional European markets. The success of these efforts in the Middle East will depend on factors such as transportation costs and import regulations.
According to Persistence Market Research, the global market for asparagus is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.2%. The market, valued at USD 23.7 billion in 2023, is projected to reach USD 33.8 billion by 2030.
This robust growth is driven by increasing consumer awareness of healthy eating habits and the nutritional benefits of asparagus, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious individuals seeking low-calorie, nutrient-dense options.
Morocco’s steady increase in asparagus exports and its efforts to explore new markets reflect the growing global demand for this versatile vegetable.
The North African country’s ability to adapt to changing market conditions and extend its harvest season positions it well to continue its upward trajectory in the global asparagus market.
For all the latest fresh produce industry news updates from Africa, the Middle East, and the World, subscribe to our NEWSLETTER, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, like us on Facebook, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.
Morocco’s asparagus industry set to break export records
MOROCCO – Morocco’s agricultural sector is experiencing a significant rise in fresh asparagus exports, with the country on course to break its own record for the fourth consecutive season.
According to EastFruit, an agricultural analyst firm, Morocco’s asparagus exports have already surpassed figures from the first half of the current season, with 320 tons shipped between November 2022 and March 2024 compared to 260 tons in the same period last year.
This growth indicates that Morocco could achieve a new record by the end of the export season in August.
Traditionally, Moroccan asparagus was harvested between January and March. However, the past two years have seen strong sales extending through May, offering a longer window for both domestic and international buyers.
The European Union (EU) remains a key market, with Moroccan producers benefiting from an early harvest season.
Spain has been the biggest importer, using Moroccan asparagus for both consumption and re-export to other European countries.
However, this season has seen a shift in export destinations, with Belgium now the top recipient, taking over half of all shipments. Spain still holds a significant share, with smaller amounts going to France, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.
This shift in export destinations may be due to changes in buyer preferences, pricing strategies, or logistical considerations. Further analysis is needed to understand the exact reasons behind this development.
Beyond Europe, Morocco is also venturing into new markets in the Middle East. Although exports to this region are still modest, there have been initial advances.
Small shipments have been made to Bahrain and Qatar over the past two seasons, and this year saw 1.7 tons of asparagus exported to Jordan.
This diversification strategy highlights Morocco’s ambition to expand its export footprint beyond traditional European markets. The success of these efforts in the Middle East will depend on factors such as transportation costs and import regulations.
According to Persistence Market Research, the global market for asparagus is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.2%. The market, valued at USD 23.7 billion in 2023, is projected to reach USD 33.8 billion by 2030.
This robust growth is driven by increasing consumer awareness of healthy eating habits and the nutritional benefits of asparagus, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious individuals seeking low-calorie, nutrient-dense options.
Morocco’s steady increase in asparagus exports and its efforts to explore new markets reflect the growing global demand for this versatile vegetable.
The North African country’s ability to adapt to changing market conditions and extend its harvest season positions it well to continue its upward trajectory in the global asparagus market.
For all the latest fresh produce industry news updates from Africa, the Middle East, and the World, subscribe to our NEWSLETTER, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, like us on Facebook, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.