The drought in Morocco has impacted the volumes and prices of fresh produce destined for West African markets, even leading to episodes of export bans for certain products such as tomatoes. However, according to Baye Sidy, a fresh produce exporter based in Fes, the Moroccan origin remains essential to the supply of many products in West Africa.
Baye says, "Competition on the West African market is growing steadily and has certainly been dynamic in recent years, with increasing demand for imported fresh produce. The market is quite large and covers several countries, and the competing origins are diverse, including Morocco, European countries, as well as Egypt, in addition to neighboring countries. The Moroccan origin is the most present in West African markets thanks to its historical presence, close cultural ties, and logistical convenience."
Moroccan products exported to West Africa cover a wide range of fruits and vegetables, according to the exporter. He adds: "We export just about everything: early vegetables, carrots, onions, cabbage, oranges, clementines, apples, grapes, and much more. My company works on markets in Senegal, Mali, and Burkina Faso, where demand is strong. This season, the most popular product is certainly the clementine, which can be found on every market in Senegal and is much appreciated by consumers."
The drought that Morocco has been experiencing for the past seven years has limited volumes destined for West Africa, with several episodes of export bans in recent years. "Today, export flows have resumed for all products, but it's prices that have been badly affected. I have to say that prices have been very expensive in recent years because of water stress," Baye continues.
Contrary to common belief, the West African market is demanding in terms of quality and size, according to the exporter. He explains, "For all products, there is a preference in the West African market for large and medium sizes. We work with reliable suppliers in long-term relationships to guarantee quality supplies. More and more volumes are being distributed in supermarkets and on international markets, which is helping to standardize requirements. On the Moroccan side, we have always been able to source quality products, with rare exceptions like last season's grapes, whose quality was impacted by weather conditions."
"The market is booming and can absorb large volumes and become an important destination for fresh produce. In parallel with this trend, we are hoping to see a growth in local production in Senegal and a modernization of the distribution sector to manage imports more efficiently. This involves, for example, improving logistics and building more cold rooms. The fresh produce production and distribution sector could prove to be a real lever for development and curbing migration from our countries", Baye concludes.
For more information:
Sidy Baye
Sidi Baye Ndiaye Transit
Tel: +212689949866
Email: [email protected]