Clementine production in Morocco has declined by 12% amidst a challenging season and delays in harvesting, according to a report published by Fresh Plaza, a site specializing in agriculture and agricultural trade.
The report indicates that repeated heatwaves and drought conditions during May and June, with temperatures reaching as high as 42 degrees Celsius, stressed the trees and weakened the fruiting process. This resulted in a two-week delay in the start of the harvesting season and a decrease in fruit sizes by an average of 2 to 4 millimeters.
Despite these climatic challenges, some farms performed better thanks to advanced agricultural techniques and water-rich production sites, such as the Gharb region, where Orbis Agro Industry produces about 12,000 tons of clementines annually. The company’s commercial manager, Lisa Delay Alcaraz, stated that “investment in smart irrigation and fertile soil helped maintain fruit quality despite the drought.”
The report highlights that the “Nadorcott” variety continues to thrive, with exports exceeding 325,000 tons during the 2024/2025 season, reflecting a growth of over 43%. Strong performance is expected to continue despite challenges, particularly as demand for Moroccan clementines remains high in European and western markets, especially in France, Canada, and Russia.
The domestic market is also witnessing steady growth due to increasing local demand, with prices sometimes matching those for export, making it a strategic alternative for farmers seeking a balance between economic returns and external market fluctuations.
The report concludes that the 2025/2026 season will be a real test of the Moroccan agricultural sector’s ability to adapt to climate change, especially with national precipitation levels limited by 15%, compelling stakeholders to enhance innovation and sustainable management to ensure the continuity of citrus production.
