Morocco has just reached a historic milestone in the blueberry export sector, achieving an all-time high for its exports during the 2023/24 season, which runs from July to June. The country has managed to expand its presence in the main export markets for fresh blueberries, recording remarkable growth and thus affirming its position among the world leaders in the industry.

+25% for Morocco for export

During the 2023/24 season, Morocco exported an impressive volume of 67.300 tonnes of fresh blueberries, an increase of 25% compared to the previous season. This exceptional result represents a quadrupling of exports since the 2017/18 season, illustrating the effectiveness of the strategies deployed by Moroccan producers to conquer new markets.

However, despite this increase, the share of Spain, once the main market for Moroccan blueberries, has fallen significantly, from 80% to 30% in recent years. Despite this decline, Spain remains Morocco's main customer, with imports increasing by 11% to 20.100 tonnes. But for Morocco, customer diversification is now complete.

In fact, the positive trend is not limited to Spain. Morocco has also strengthened its positions in other key European markets. For example, exports to the United Kingdom rose by almost a third to 14.600 tonnes, while shipments to the Netherlands increased by 42%, reaching 14.500 tonnes. Germany and France also recorded significant increases, with 4.300 and 3.900 tonnes of Moroccan blueberries imported respectively.

Outside Europe, Moroccan exports have also diversified. In the Middle East, Morocco shipped 1.800 tonnes of blueberries, mainly to the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain. Exports to North America also saw an increase, with 360 tonnes sent to the United States and 900 tonnes to Canada. In addition, Southeast Asia, including Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia, has become a strategic destination, with exports increasing 3,3-fold since 2019.

Great Britain: a market worth its weight in gold 

A striking example of the growth potential of Moroccan exporters is the UK market, where demand for blueberries has soared by 27% this year. Blueberries have become one of the fastest-growing fruits in the UK, where they are increasingly valued for their health benefits and culinary versatility.

Fall Creek invests in Romania: a step forward for innovation in Europe

British consumers, especially the younger generation, are increasingly incorporating these little berries into their daily diet, whether in smoothies or muffins. However, local UK production is far from sufficient to meet this growing demand, with only 6.000 tonnes produced per year, forcing the country to import almost 90% of its needs.

Reliance on imports, particularly from Peru, exposes the UK market to risks from global price fluctuations and high environmental impacts. Peru, the world’s leading exporter, recently experienced extreme weather conditions, reducing yields and causing prices to rise by 60% in the US – a clear warning of the volatility of a globalised market. Naturally, the big groups are already betting on this opportunity, with a considerable advantage for the incumbent companies operating with small berries around the world.

In light of these dynamics, global blueberry producers continue to position themselves strategically. A few weeks ago we also announced Fall Creek's investment in Romania through an article entitled: Fall Creek, a world leader in blueberry plant production, announced the acquisition of 50 hectares in Romania ; The company intends to build a new modern nursery there. This initiative aims to strengthen the capacities of the European supply chain and accelerate the development of new varieties adapted to the specific climatic conditions of the region.

With this project, Fall Creek demonstrates its commitment to promoting sustainable agricultural practices while providing tangible benefits to local communities. This strategic move could also open up new opportunities for blueberry growers, both in Europe and globally.

Morocco’s remarkable performance in the global blueberry market highlights not only the effectiveness of its export strategy, but also the growing importance of this fruit in international diets. As demand continues to rise, Moroccan producers are well positioned to meet the challenges of an ever-changing market, while contributing to global food security.