The growing success of blueberry Moroccan produce in the British market could face new regulatory hurdles. The rapprochement between the United Kingdom and the European Union on sanitary and phytosanitary matters threatens to tighten controls on fresh produce imported from non-EU countries, including Morocco.

The United Kingdom imported 82.630 tons of blueberries During 2025, this represents almost 15% more than the previous year. Morocco already occupies a central position in this market. Between July 2024 and June 2025, its exporters shipped around 19.000 tons, valued at $144 million.

This volume, 44% higher than the previous season, made the Kingdom the main supplier to the British market, accounting for nearly a quarter of its imports. In April, coinciding with the peak availability of Moroccan production, its share reached approximately 75% of monthly British purchases.

The indirect effect of the agreement with Brussels

London and Brussels are negotiating a sanitary and phytosanitary agreement aimed at reducing the red tape and controls that have hampered agri-food trade between the two sides since Brexit. The British government intends for the new system to come into effect by mid-2027.

However, simplifying trade with the European Union could have the opposite effect on suppliers from the rest of the world. Aligning the UK with EU rules would require certain non-EU imports to present phytosanitary certificates and undergo more frequent inspections.

The Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC), which represents the British fruit and vegetable sector, is calling for a lasting exemption for fresh produce from third countries that is intended exclusively for consumption in the United Kingdom.

The organization maintains that the current British system, based on risk assessment, achieves a 99,5% compliance rate. Therefore, it considers it unnecessary to automatically apply all EU requirements to these products.

Higher costs and less time to sell the fruit

The problem isn't limited to the cost of certificates or inspections. Border delays can reduce the shelf life of a perishable fruit like blueberries, increase losses, and make it difficult to meet supply schedules.

The FPC estimates that the new certifications, controls, and fees could generate over £300 million in additional annual costs for the entire fruit and vegetable sector. This figure affects approximately four million tons of fresh produce imported from countries outside the European Union, and not just those in the EU. blueberries.

"The supply chain from the rest of the world is not optional. It is essential to feeding the country," warned Nigel Jenney, chief executive of the consortium, which supports a reasonable approach between London and Brussels, but "not at any cost."

The organization is calling for the protection of international supply chains to be addressed at the UK-EU summit scheduled for November 20. The outcome will be particularly relevant for Moroccan producers, as any new costs or delays could affect one of their fastest-growing markets in recent years.

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