Spain has seen a significant increase in the cost of Moroccan fruit imports in the first half of 2024, despite receiving a lower volume of produce. According to Spanish media outlet OkDiario, Spain shelled out 30% more for Moroccan fruit, totaling €434.1 million for 125.5 million kilograms, compared to €405 million for 149.3 million kilograms in the previous year. This price hike has raised the cost per kilogram from €2.7 to €3.46, marking a steep increase in spending by €28.5 million while importing 23.8 million kilograms less fruit.
This surge in prices has sparked discontent among Spanish farmers, who find themselves in a tight spot, selling their produce at a loss and challenging the fairness under the Food Chain Law. Óscar Moret from Coag agricultural organization highlights the plight of local farmers, pointing out the unsustainable selling prices for nectarines or paraguayas, which barely cover the cost of production. The situation is exacerbated by the slight price differences that, although seemingly insignificant to consumers, pose a substantial financial strain on farmers.
Moret's concerns underline a looming crisis where continuous sales below cost could shift the dynamics of the sector. The fear is that family-owned farms, already grappling with price volatility and soaring production costs, may eventually give way to large investment funds dominating fruit production. This scenario raises alarms about the future sustainability of local farming communities and the broader implications for Spain's agricultural landscape.
Source: Morocco World News