Morocco is redrawing the map of red fruits: berries are surpassing strawberries in production
The Moroccan agricultural scene is undergoing a significant transformation with the rise of red fruits to the forefront of production and export, as traditional strawberry cultivation declines in the face of a new wave of higher-yield crops that meet the increasing global demand.
This shift, driven by a surge in European interest in blueberries and red berries, reflects the maturity of Morocco’s agricultural vision and its capacity to adapt swiftly to climatic and commercial transformations, positioning the country as a key player in the global red fruit market.
Blueberries and red berries are now at the helm of Moroccan exports to European markets, fueled by rising global demand and their superior economic returns.
Experts describe this change as a “qualitative leap,” showcasing the Moroccan agricultural sector’s ability to respond to changing international market demands and growing climate challenges.
In a statement to FreshPlaza during the International Strawberry Conference 2025 in Antwerp, Belgium, Nabil Belmakhdem, director of the BestBerry cooperative, emphasized that this change is not coincidental but rather a result of adopting modern agricultural practices and a comprehensive overhaul of production and export chains.
Belmakhdem added that Morocco has solidified its position as one of Europe’s leading suppliers of red fruits, benefiting from invaluable geographical advantages: its proximity to the continent, a temperate climate that allows for production outside the European season, and a pool of highly qualified agricultural professionals.
The figures clearly reflect this new dynamic: Moroccan raspberry exports during the 2024-2025 agricultural season reached approximately 64,400 tons, with a total value exceeding $487 million. This volume represents a 13.8% increase compared to the previous season.
This performance has elevated red berries to second place among Morocco’s most important agricultural exports, following tomatoes, highlighting their pivotal role in bolstering the country’s foreign currency reserves.
European Union and United Kingdom markets receive the majority of these fresh products, while frozen strawberry exports are directed to distant markets such as North America and Asia.
Moroccan producers meticulously organize their seasons to meet the needs of the European market, where blueberry and red berry production extends until June, surpassing the strawberry season that concludes in March.
Despite this success, the sector faces real challenges that threaten its sustainability. Among the foremost are the effects of climate change and drought, which impose increasing pressure on water resources. Producers are also encountering rising production costs and a shortage of skilled labor.
In addition, the stringent health regulations imposed by European markets remain a persistent challenge that requires ongoing investment in quality and compliance with standards to ensure the continuity of Moroccan exports.
