Demand for Moroccan peppers is exceptionally high this season due to production difficulties in Europe. Yields in Morocco, on the other hand, are lower than last season, which is driving up prices. Amine Amanatoullah, an Agadir-based grower, reports on the market situation.
"Production has suffered a lot in Europe, especially in Spain, this year due to phytosanitary problems. On our side, we're facing viruses too, but their impact is rather within the usual limits. European importers are therefore very interested in Moroccan peppers this season," Amanatoullah says.
"In Morocco, especially in the Souss Massa region where production is concentrated, it's the cold that's causing growers problems. Since the start of the season in November, low temperatures have led to a drop in yield. Volumes are therefore down by almost 30% from the previous season. We expect yields to pick up in April and through to the end of the season in May," the grower continues.
Due to strong European demand and limited volumes in Morocco, prices reached unusual heights. "It's not pertinent to compare prices with the previous season, since the situation in Spain is exceptional. Average prices for Moroccan peppers have tripled or even quadrupled this season," he adds.
Demand at this stage of the season for Moroccan peppers is particularly high in Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, France, and Spain, according to the grower. The most popular varieties are California, red bell peppers, Kapia, and to a lesser extent the standard long green variety.
For more information:
Amine Amantoullah
Fastexpo
Tel : +212 661 281321
Email: fastexpo2015@gmail.com