Update
Moroccan lemon exports have recorded their best performance in five seasons during the 2024/2025 season, indicating a clear recovery for this agricultural sector after four consecutive years of decline, according to data provided by EastFruit, a platform specializing in tracking fruit and vegetable markets.
The platform noted that from November 2024 to October 2025, the total exports of lemons from Morocco reached approximately 9,700 tons, valued at over 5 million USD, reflecting an 80% increase compared to the 2023/2024 season. This marks the highest performance since the 2010/2011 season, when exports peaked at around 18,000 tons.
Exports had approached this figure during the 2019/2020 season with 17,000 tons but had gradually declined, stabilizing at just 5,300 tons in the 2023/2024 season, which was the lowest level in recent years. However, the 2024/2025 season not only recorded significant growth but also ended the downward trend that has characterized the sector in the past.
Regarding export patterns, the platform highlighted a noticeable shift in shipping trends. Traditionally, peaks would occur in February, followed by a sharp decline starting in April. Recent seasons have shown a more balanced distribution throughout the year. In the 2024/2025 season, April recorded the highest export volume, with continued strong performance in May, reflecting greater flexibility in managing supply and a better response to external market demand.
In terms of destinations, Mauritania maintained its position as the largest importer of Moroccan lemons, accounting for 45% of total exports, marking the fourth consecutive year of growth. The United Kingdom ranked second, having exceeded imports of 1,000 tons for the first time in 17 years, while Russia came in third, capturing 9.2% of the total shipments.
Both the Netherlands and Canada resumed their imports of Moroccan lemons, while exports to France saw a 20% decline.
Conversely, sales directed to smaller markets doubled, indicating a trend towards diversifying trade partners and reducing reliance on a limited number of traditional destinations.
EastFruit concluded that this positive performance comes amid broader transformations within Morocco’s citrus export sector, as stakeholders aim to enhance the competitiveness of national products and expand their presence in international markets, particularly as recovery indicators are seen across other agricultural chains directed towards export in 2025.
