The demand for imported apple varieties in Morocco has reached new heights. From January to October 2024, the country imported 9.3 thousand tons of apples valued at over USD 65 million, setting a record since 2011, according to EastFruit.
Over the past five years, Morocco’s apple import volumes have shown steady growth, except in 2023 when there was a slight decline. Compared to 2020, the 2024 figures represent an almost 50% increase.
Despite its growing reliance on imports, Morocco remains a notable apple producer. In 2022, the country ranked as the continent’s second-largest apple producer after South Africa.
Local apple varieties continue to dominate consumer preferences, with imports peaking in spring and summer seasons when the previous year’s domestic supply runs low.
Morocco has recently expanded its taste for global apple varieties like “Gala Royal,” “Golden Delicious,” “Fuji,” and “Anna,” though local varieties still hold a significant market share.
Most of Morocco’s apple imports come from Europe, with Italy leading at 46% of total imports between January and October 2024. Spain follows with 27%, and Poland accounts for 13%.
Notably, Italy and Spain boosted their apple exports to Morocco in 2024, while Poland and Portugal saw a decline in imports. In total, 13 countries supplied apples to Morocco last year.