EU’s Moroccan tomato imports decline by 6.8% amid growing competition

MOROCCO – The European Union’s demand for Moroccan tomatoes has decreased this season, with imports dropping by 6.8% compared to the previous year.

This decline marks a significant shift in the EU’s tomato market, which has seen fluctuations in import figures from various non-EU countries.

According to Spain’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food (MAPA), EU member states imported 464,052 tons of Moroccan tomatoes between September 2023 and May 2024.

This is a substantial decrease from the 497,928 tons recorded during the same period last season. The decline is particularly notable given that Moroccan tomato imports reached a record high in 2022, making this the steepest drop in the past five years.

The overall reduction in Moroccan tomato imports aligns with a broader trend within the EU. The EU’s total tomato imports have dropped by 5.7% this season, amounting to 1,370,552 tons.

This figure also represents a 9.6% decrease compared to the average import volume over the past five years.

While Moroccan tomatoes remain the most imported within the EU among non-EU countries, other suppliers have begun to challenge this dominance. Turkey, for instance, has significantly expanded its presence in the EU market.

Turkish tomato imports surged to 191,769 tons this season, reflecting a 40.4% increase compared to the average of the last five years.

Tunisia, another key player, also saw its tomato exports to the EU rise to 24,286 tons, marking a 37.1% increase from the five-year average. These gains by Turkey and Tunisia highlight a shift in the competitive landscape of the EU’s tomato market.

The fluctuations in these import figures point to changing dynamics within the European market. Consumer preferences, trade policies, and agricultural yields are all playing a role in reshaping the flow of goods.

The 6.8% drop in Moroccan tomato imports contrasts sharply with the growth seen by Turkey and Tunisia, suggesting that Morocco may face increasing challenges in maintaining its position in the EU market.

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