Morocco Reduces Eggplant Production and Bets on Exports
The eggplant production sector in Morocco experienced a notable decline in 2022, despite maintaining a significant presence in international markets. Data published by Helgi Library revealed that production volume fell to just 61,000 tons, down from 81,000 tons in 2021, marking a decrease of 24.7%. This drop positioned Morocco as the 30th largest producer globally among 88 countries growing eggplant.
This decline occurred within a challenging climatic context characterized by severe drought, particularly in the Souss region. This situation prompted farmers to reduce the areas cultivated with seasonal vegetables like eggplant, opting instead for crops that require less water and offer higher yields.
Despite this production downturn, export indicators showed positive performance. Moroccan eggplant exports increased by 10% during the same year, reaching 7,000 tons with revenues approaching $2.3 million. Mauritania topped the list of importing countries, with total imports of 5,900 tons, followed by Spain (500 tons), France (200 tons), and the Netherlands (100 tons).
Conversely, Morocco’s imports of these vegetables sharply declined, not exceeding 788 kilograms in 2022, representing a 69.6% drop compared to 2021, with a total value of just $948. France and Spain were the main suppliers.
International reports, including those from ReportLinker, predicted a gradual revival in eggplant production in Morocco over the coming years, estimating an output of about 75,420 tons by 2026, with an annual growth rate of 2%. This scenario raises hopes among stakeholders in the sector to overcome climatic challenges and continue their presence in overseas markets.
