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Morocco emerges as a key player in EU tomato market with 40% export growth
Morocco has solidified its position as a major supplier in the European Union’s tomato market, recording a 40% increase in exports over the past decade. During the 2024/2025 campaign, Moroccan tomato exports reached 568,370 tons, accounting for 19.63% of the EU’s total imports and generating €1.04 billion, according to Euroestacom (Icex-Eurostat) data compiled by Hortoinfo.
A shifting landscape in EU tomato trade
While Morocco’s market share continues to grow, traditional leaders like Spain are losing ground. Spanish tomato exports have fallen by 35.23% since 2015/2016, now totaling 522,520 tons (18.05% of EU imports), with a value of €1.02 billion. Rising labor costs and persistent drought have undermined Spain’s competitiveness.
The Netherlands, despite maintaining the top position in the EU market with 780,220 tons (26.95% of imports), has also faced a 19.48% decline over the last decade. Its reliance on energy-intensive greenhouse systems, affected by surging energy costs, has added pressure to its position.
Turkey, however, has emerged as the most dynamic supplier, achieving a remarkable 212.9% export growth in the last ten years. Turkish exports reached 185,770 tons in 2024/2025, valued at €236.8 million, with an average price of €1.27 per kilogram.
In 2024/2025, total EU tomato imports stood at 2.89 million tons, valued at €5.29 billion, with an average import price of €1.83 per kilogram.
Morocco’s competitive edge
Morocco’s success lies in its ability to produce high-quality tomatoes at lower costs compared to competitors like Spain and the Netherlands. With an average export price of €1.83 per kilogram, Moroccan tomatoes remain highly competitive.
Favorable climate conditions allow for extended growing seasons, reducing the reliance on energy-intensive heated greenhouses. Additionally, Morocco benefits from a relatively affordable agricultural workforce, further enhancing its cost advantage.
Trade agreements boost market access
The Morocco-EU Association Agreement has been a strategic lever for the country’s agricultural exports. By granting tariff preferences and quotas, the agreement has provided Moroccan producers with secure access to the European market.
Despite criticism from Spanish and French farmers over perceived uneven competition, these agreements have enabled Morocco to gain the trust of European retailers and expand its market share.
A central pillar of Europe’s food supply
Morocco’s rise in the EU tomato market reflects a broader structural shift in the region’s reliance on Moroccan imports. The country has transitioned from being a seasonal supplier to becoming a cornerstone of Europe’s tomato supply chain.
With its robust production capacity, competitive pricing, and strategic trade partnerships, Morocco is playing an increasingly critical role in supporting the EU’s food security.
