Moroccan 2018/19 citrus crop increases 18%

Morocco’s 2018/19 citrus production is estimated at 2.6 million tons, up 18% from last season.  The mandarin crop is expected to rise 14% to 1.35 million tons, and the orange crop by 18% to 1.2 million tons. Volumes of lemon/lime are estimated at 45,000 tons. This year’s crop has been helped by favourable growing conditions and increased acreage as new trees enter production.

As for exports, mandarin shipments abroad are expected to reach approximately 585,000 tons, while orange exports should reach about 190,000 tons. Russia and the EU remain Morocco’s principal export markets. Data published for the 2017/18 season show that exports to the US were up almost 30% to 55,561 tons, aided by regained market access for Morocco’s Berkane region. Meanwhile, shipments to the Middle East were up by nearly 58% to 15,678 tons.