Pepper production in Morocco's Souss-Massa region has dropped by 30% to 40% this week, due to cold nighttime temperatures and viral diseases like Pepper Mild Mottle Virus (PMMV), according to local producer Obeida Mansour of Universal Peppers.
Nighttime temperatures have plummeted to 8-9°C (46-48°F), with daytime temperatures hovering around 20-21°C (68-70°F), significantly impacting greenhouse yields. "Producers who planted virus-sensitive varieties have experienced severe losses," Mansour said. Although his company planted virus-resistant varieties on 60% of its land, challenges persist.
Despite the reduced harvest, Moroccan exporters are continuing shipments to European markets, with prices expected to rise in January due to colder weather. "Lower harvests align with reduced demand during the European holiday season, but prices are set to increase as temperatures fall," Mansour added.
California pepper producers, especially those in high demand in the UK, have been most affected by the dip in year-end demand. However, Mansour's Universal Peppers intends to maintain exports of three truckloads per week through January, focusing on the Kapi variety, favored by Turkish and Arab communities in Germany and Eastern Europe.
Morocco has already set a record for California pepper exports this year, with nearly 150,000 tons shipped from January to August, a 20% increase from 2023.
Source: HESPRESS