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Agriculture

Escalating Tensions: Morocco's Tomato Trade Faces Backlash in France

Monday 20 May 2024 - 14:05

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In the heart of the French agricultural hub of Perpignan, Morocco's tomato exports have found themselves in the crosshairs of a burgeoning campaign by local producers. The Confédération marocaine de l'agriculture et du développement rural (Comader) has sounded the alarm over these recent attacks, decrying the actions of certain French growers who have targeted shipments of Moroccan tomatoes.

According to Comader's statement released on Monday, these organizations have falsely condemned "unfair competition" and called for clearer labeling for French consumers. This stance comes despite the fact that Moroccan tomatoes are exported to France under the auspices of a legally recognized agricultural agreement between the Kingdom of Morocco and the European Union.

Comader was quick to emphasize that Moroccan tomatoes adhere to all necessary norms and requirements, undergoing rigorous inspection by European authorities before entering French and European markets. The organization vehemently condemned these "incomprehensible" acts and behaviors based on "vague arguments," lambasting the French authorities for their lack of rigor in the face of this alarming rise in attacks against Moroccan agricultural products.

"In the face of this growing and recurrent hostility, Comader reserves the right to defend, by all possible means, the legitimate interests of Moroccan producers," the Confederation asserted.

The escalating tensions surrounding Morocco's tomato trade with France have cast a spotlight on the complex dynamics of agricultural trade between the two nations. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders on both sides will undoubtedly be closely monitoring developments and seeking a resolution that upholds the principles of fair competition and mutual cooperation.