Morocco strengthens its position in the global watermelon market

12:20

By: Azzat Manal

Morocco strengthens its position in the global watermelon market

Morocco has strengthened its position in the international watermelon trade, ranking among the world’s leading exporters in 2024 and emerging as the largest Arab exporter by export value, according to data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and international trade databases.

Moroccan watermelon exports were valued at approximately $94 million in 2024, placing the country sixth worldwide. Morocco accounted for nearly 68% of the total export value recorded for Arab countries with available data, highlighting the importance of the fruit within the Kingdom’s agricultural export sector.

Spain ranked first globally, with watermelon exports worth around $561.6 million, followed by Mexico at approximately $292.1 million. Italy came third with $181.6 million, while the United States recorded $165.3 million and the Netherlands about $135.1 million.

Morocco’s exports exceeded those of several major agricultural producers. Greece exported around $87.3 million worth of watermelons, followed by Brazil with $73.6 million, China with $72.3 million and Guatemala with approximately $56.4 million.

Overall, watermelon exports reported by 104 economies reached approximately $2.15 billion in 2024, underlining the fruit’s growing importance in international agricultural trade.

The figures also illustrate an important distinction between agricultural production and export performance. A country can produce large quantities of watermelons without necessarily becoming one of the leading exporters, while countries with smaller production volumes can generate significantly higher export revenues through market access, quality, logistics and international distribution networks.

In terms of production within the Arab world, Morocco ranked fifth, with approximately 339,500 tonnes. Algeria was the region’s largest producer, with around 2.52 million tonnes, followed by Egypt with approximately 712,500 tonnes, Saudi Arabia with 608,500 tonnes and Tunisia with about 504,100 tonnes.

Morocco’s position in the export market therefore reflects more than the size of its domestic production. Its agricultural infrastructure, proximity to major European markets and established trade networks have helped Moroccan producers develop a strong presence in international fresh-produce markets.

The country’s performance in watermelon exports also demonstrates how agricultural products can generate significant international trade value even when domestic production ranks below that of several competing countries.

With demand for fresh fruit continuing to support global agricultural trade, Morocco’s strong export performance places the country among the key players in the international watermelon market and reinforces the importance of agriculture within its broader export economy.