Afghanistan and Morocco strengthen their agricultural export markets

Tuesday 04 March 2025 - 09:02

Afghanistan and Morocco are making significant strides in the global agricultural sector, with notable increases in exports. On Monday, Afghanistan’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry reported substantial growth in fresh fruit exports, highlighting the sector's resilience.

Over the past 11 months, Afghanistan exported approximately 296,000 tons of fresh fruits valued at over USD 143 million. Major buyers include Pakistan, India, the United Arab Emirates, and China, demonstrating the country's growing competitiveness in international markets. However, dried fruit exports declined to USD 350 million over the past 10 months, compared to USD 388 million in the same period last year. Despite this drop, fresh fruit exports signal confidence in Afghan agricultural products.

Meanwhile, Morocco is gaining traction in the European Union’s pepper market. A report from “Hortoinfo,” using Euroestacom (ICEX-Eurostat) data, shows Morocco’s share steadily increasing over the past 15 years.

Spain remains the EU’s top pepper exporter, but its market share has declined by 26.4% since 2019. Last year, Spain exported 535.58 million kilograms of peppers—192.13 million kilograms less than five years ago. In contrast, Morocco’s pepper exports surged 65.6% in the same period, reaching 188.13 million kilograms last year, up by 74.52 million kilograms since 2019.

Moroccan pepper exports have also seen revenue growth, more than doubling in five years to reach EUR 235.41 million in 2023, compared to EUR 113.4 million in 2019. The price per kilogram rose to EUR 1.25, reflecting strong demand and recognition of Morocco’s agricultural quality.

Afghanistan and Morocco’s expanding agricultural exports underscore their adaptability to shifting global markets and evolving consumer demands. Their growing presence in international trade is reshaping traditional supply chains and creating new opportunities in the competitive agricultural sector.