Morocco’s blueberry exports to Eastern Europe surge in 2024

MOROCCO – Morocco has set a new record for blueberry exports in 2024, with the first six months alone surpassing last year’s total.

This success has solidified Morocco’s position as a key player in the Eastern European market, as reported by EastFruit.

Between January and June 2024, Morocco exported 2.1 thousand tons of blueberries to Eastern Europe, significantly higher than the 1.8 thousand tons exported in all of 2023.

This remarkable growth is driven by increasing demand from countries such as Poland, Estonia, Ukraine, and the Czech Republic.

Poland alone accounted for 1.5 thousand tons, while Estonia received 240 tons, showcasing the growing interest in Moroccan blueberries.

“This is a significant milestone for Morocco, reflecting the strong demand for our produce in Europe,” said a representative from Morocco’s fresh produce industry.

Morocco’s blueberry industry has been steadily growing its influence in Eastern Europe. The increased export volumes have been facilitated by favorable weather conditions, strong logistics, and market demand for high-quality blueberries.

Although exports to Ukraine and the Czech Republic have seen a slight dip, Morocco’s overall presence in the region remains strong.

It’s important to note that the 2.1 thousand tons represent only direct exports from Morocco. When indirect shipments through Spain, the Netherlands, and Germany are considered, the actual impact of Moroccan blueberries on Eastern European markets could be even greater.

“Direct shipments are just one part of the story. A considerable volume of Moroccan blueberries reaches Eastern Europe through re-exports via other European nations,” said a market analyst from EastFruit.

In the first half of 2024, total blueberry imports to the four mentioned countries approached 25 thousand tons, almost matching the levels seen during the challenging El Niño-affected year of 2023.

The demand for blueberries in Eastern Europe has been steadily increasing since 2019, with imports in 2022 reaching over 32 thousand tons. Including additional countries like Lithuania, Romania, Latvia, and Slovakia, total imports in the region reached nearly 45 thousand tons.

Despite Eastern Europe’s own blueberry production, particularly in Poland and Ukraine, there is still ample room for growth in off-season consumption.

During the first half of the year, European countries such as Spain and Morocco dominate the supply chain. However, as the season progresses, imports from countries in the Southern Hemisphere, including Chile, Peru, and South Africa, take over.

Sweden also plays a significant role in supplying wild blueberries to the Baltic nations during this period.

Moroccan exporters are confident in the future growth potential of their blueberries in Eastern Europe, particularly as the demand for fresh produce continues to rise.

The region’s increasing preference for healthy, nutritious food options is likely to further boost the demand for Moroccan blueberries, especially during the off-season.

“We see tremendous potential for growth in the coming years, and we are committed to expanding our reach in Eastern Europe,” said a Moroccan exporter.

Morocco is not the only country benefiting from the rising global demand for blueberries. Countries like South Africa are also experiencing increased interest in their blueberry exports, particularly during their peak seasons.

At a recent event in Cape Town, South African growers and exporters discussed the growing importance of their seasonal window in global markets, which further underscores the dynamic and evolving nature of the global blueberry trade.

The global blueberry industry continues to expand, with countries like Morocco and South Africa positioning themselves as essential suppliers.

As consumers increasingly turn to blueberries for their health benefits, these countries are well-placed to meet the rising demand.

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