According to the Association of Citrus Exporters (ASPAM), Morocco plans to triple exports to Russia between now and 2018. The Green Morocco Plan aims to increase citrus production to 2.9 million tons by 2018 and boost exports to 1.3 million tons, with the objective of doubling citrus production to around 3.19 million tons per annum by 2020.
In their 2013-2015 campaign programme, the Moroccan Exporters Association (ASMEX) has cited the Russian market amongst their destinations that could boost Moroccan export and services.
Russia has become Morocco's number one citrus client, taking 60% of exports, North America between 10-15%, and the European Union 30%. In 2012-2013 Morocco sent almost 200,000 tons of mandarins last season to Russia, a 52% rise compared to past seasons.
The Moroccan Fruit Board, the largest group of exporters, hopes to triple these figures by 2015, notably by developing new opportunities in Canada, the United States, Asia and Africa.
According to professionals, using shipping containers for transport maintains the quality and cold chain and allows more flexibility. It is also less expensive but the traffic is slightly slower (from 24 to 48 hours).
The Moroccan-Russian General Affairs Council, Maroc Export and Asmex often meet to discuss growth opportunities in Morocco as well as its potential as a hub into Africa.
By aiming at Russia becoming their number one market, Moroccan export will go through market diversification and a market repositioning with Great Britain, Germany and Benelux.
According to the Moroccan Minister, Mohamed Abbou, in charge of foreign trade, the European market takes in 70% of Moroccan fruit and vegetable export.
Producers are also aiming at other markets such as Asia- China in particular, where clementine containers have already been delivered thanks to a phytosanitary agreement signed by health authorities.
