Morocco has increased its imports of shelled almonds from the USA, with over 35,000 tons imported in the first 11 months of 2024, valued at $174.5 million, marking an 18% increase from 2023, according to EastFruit. This sets a new record in import volume.
Since 2017, Morocco has shown a consistent rise in shelled almond imports from the USA, except in 2022 when global economic challenges led to a slight reduction. Growth resumed in 2023, with the 2024 volume being 38 times higher than in 2017.
Almond imports occur year-round, though volumes decrease during the local harvest season in September and October. The USA remains the primary supplier, accounting for nearly 99% of Morocco's imports in the first 11 months of 2024. Smaller quantities are imported from Spain, Portugal, Algeria, Italy, and the Netherlands.
Morocco ranks 8th among the USA's almond export destinations, with a 5% share. In 2024, the USA supplied shelled almonds to 112 countries as the world's leading exporter.
Nut consumption in Morocco is increasing, with almonds being the most popular. Consequently, the annual import value of almonds is second only to dates among fruit and vegetable products. As of the first 11 months of 2024, Morocco ranks among the top 10 global importers of shelled almonds.
Morocco has also developed its own almond production, exporting 215 tons to Denmark, Italy, and Germany in 2024. According to FAOStat, Morocco's domestic almond production (in shell) reached 146,000 tons in 2023.
Source: East Fruit