Morocco sustains watermelon exports to EU despite growing water crisis

Thursday 11 September 2025 - 09:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco sustains watermelon exports to EU despite growing water crisis

Morocco has solidified its position as a leading supplier of watermelons to the European Union despite escalating concerns over its water scarcity. New data reveals the North African nation as the EU's second-largest watermelon exporter, trailing only Spain.

According to agriculture-focused platform Hortoinfo, Morocco's watermelon exports to the EU soared by 53.49% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year. Between January and June, EU member states imported 689.03 million kilograms of watermelons, with Morocco contributing 130 million kilograms — equivalent to 18.95% of the total imports. This growth represents an increase of 45.51 million kilograms over the previous year.

Morocco's watermelon exports generated €162.43 million during this period, with an average price of €1.24 per kilogram. Spain maintained its lead as the EU's top supplier, accounting for 21.85% of the market, while the Netherlands and Turkey ranked third and fourth, respectively.

Rising concerns over water-intensive crops

The export of water-thirsty crops like watermelons has sparked criticism amid Morocco’s prolonged drought. The country has faced seven consecutive seasons of drought, prompting the government to implement stricter water management policies. Measures include canceling traditional Eid Al Adha livestock sacrifices and prohibiting the slaughter of female goats and sheep to stabilize agricultural production.

Morocco’s avocado boom

Beyond watermelons, the country is also witnessing growth in avocado production. Morocco has been ranked as Africa's third-largest avocado producer, with a 2023 output of 118,666 tons. This achievement underscores the kingdom’s expanding prominence in global agricultural markets.

Drought and future challenges

Despite its agricultural success, Morocco’s water crisis remains a pressing concern. A report by the US-based National Drought Mitigation Center, in collaboration with the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), identified Morocco as one of the Mediterranean region's most drought-affected nations. It warned that the country could become increasingly arid throughout the 21st century, with water availability projected to drop to 400 cubic meters per person by 2050.

The government continues to face mounting pressure to align its agricultural policies with national climate objectives, as water scarcity poses a growing threat to the sustainability of Morocco's agricultural exports.