Fluctuating Fruit and Vegetable Prices in Morocco
Amidst Morocco's challenges with water stress and a global surge in agricultural input prices, consumers have been pleasantly surprised in recent weeks by an unexpected decline in fruit and vegetable prices at market stalls.
This downward trend is mainly attributed to favorable weather conditions that accelerated the ripening of certain vegetables, such as tomatoes, leading to an excess supply, according to Rachid Benali, president of the Moroccan Confederation of Agriculture (COMADER). Additionally, the sudden halt in exports to Mauritania following an increase in customs duties, along with a 50% drop in exports to Europe, have also contributed to this curious downturn.
However, experts remain cautious. "The impact on prices is temporary and is expected to fade within two months," warns Rachid Benali. Once the current volumes of tomatoes are depleted, prices are expected to quickly revert to their 2022 levels.
On the other hand, Lahoucine Aderdour, president of the Interprofessional Federation of Fruits and Vegetables (FIFEL), denounces "exorbitant prices" and questions the "true cost of production" of the products. Between water scarcity and soaring fertilizer prices, farmers are grappling with a significant increase in their costs.