“Blueberry growers were very lucky given the difficulties we saw across the country,” adds Benchekroun. «The heat wave in August and the storm that hit the Atlantic coast in October caused significant losses in many berries, but fortunately the blueberries were not yet ready for harvest. Low temperatures caused the soil to dry out, but this problem was eventually solved with additional irrigation. “It took a lot of effort and farming operations to adapt to the unpredictable weather, but yields were not affected.”

As for prices, things are still unclear, says Benchekroun: “There is still a lot of uncertainty and it is still too early to establish an average price.

However, farmgate prices have never fallen below those of the previous season. , despite daily fluctuations.»

Morocco is currently benefiting from a period of low competition in the international market, adds Benchekroun. «The Peruvian calendars are ending and Spain will not enter the market until March. “This opens a window of 1 to 2 months of calm competition and satisfactory prices for Moroccan exporters.”

In terms of demand, there have been no major changes, says Benchekroun. "Most of the volumes are absorbed by the international markets of the Netherlands, France and Spain, for re-exportation throughout Europe and Russia."

What stands out this season, according to the exporter, is that payment methods are becoming stricter. «With inflation, everyone now needs liquidity and cash in circulation is no longer enough. “Everyone, from agricultural input suppliers to farmers and exporters, demands payment in advance.”