A significant development has emerged for the Moroccan citrus industry, as the country was recently granted access to the Brazilian market to export clementines and mandarins. This milestone was achieved through a collaborative effort between Morocco’s National Office for Food Safety (ONSSA) and Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA). The agreement, established at the International Agricultural Show in Morocco (SIAM), outlines the phytosanitary protocols necessary to safely import Moroccan citrus into Brazil.

This market access presents a strategic opportunity for Morocco, a leading citrus exporter with a global reach exceeding 600,000 tons annually. Notably, a significant portion (23%) of Moroccan citrus exports have already reached the Americas. The Brazilian market, boasting a population exceeding 215 million, offers the potential to further solidify Morocco’s position as a major player in the global citrus trade.

The timing of this agreement is particularly advantageous. Moroccan citrus production cycles differ from those of Brazil, effectively creating a complementary supply window. This implies that Moroccan citrus can cater to Brazilian consumer demand during periods when domestic production is limited. This strategic advantage is expected to contribute to a notable increase in Moroccan citrus exports to Latin America.

The agreement transcends its immediate impact on the citrus industry. It signifies a broader strengthening of the relationship between Morocco and Brazil. The two nations boast a diplomatic history spanning over 60 years, and their bilateral trade has witnessed a significant upsurge in recent years. Notably, trade volumes reached a record high of $3 billion in 2022, and the first quarter of 2024 has already seen a remarkable 37% increase compared to the same period last year. Experts attribute this flourishing trade relationship to the strong political ties and shared vision for economic growth fostered by both nations.

The Moroccan citrus industry is poised to benefit considerably from this market access agreement. The Brazilian market’s vast potential, coupled with the complementary production cycles, presents a lucrative opportunity for increased exports. This development serves as a testament to the broader economic ties between Morocco and Brazil, which are expected to continue strengthening in the future.