Morocco has solidified its position as the second-largest supplier of tomatoes to the European Union during the 2025/2026 season, relegating Spain to third place for the second consecutive year. According to data from the statistical office "Eurostat," Morocco exported 493.33 million kilograms of tomatoes to the EU, accounting for 17.74% of the total imported quantities. The value of these sales reached 1030.19 million euros, with an average price of 2.09 euros per kilogram.
In contrast, Spain recorded 475.8 million kilograms of tomato exports to the EU, with a share of 17.11% and a value of 1.017.28 billion euros, at an average price of 2.14 euros per kilogram. This development has enabled Morocco to surpass its Spanish competitor by approximately 17.5 million kilograms, equivalent to 3.6% of its sales volume, and a value difference of around 12.9 million euros.
The ranking gains significance considering Morocco's progress over the past ten seasons, with its tomato sales to the EU increasing by 22.17% since the 2016/2017 season. This growth coincides with a decline in Spanish sales of around 37% and a decrease in Dutch sales of 18.4%. Despite the decline, the Netherlands remains the leading supplier, with 773.45 million kilograms of tomatoes, representing 27.81% of the total volume, and a value of 1648.07 million euros.
The Netherlands' average price per kilogram was 2.13 euros, maintaining its position as the top supplier, ahead of Morocco by approximately 280 million kilograms in volume and 617.88 million euros in value. The difference between the first and second-ranked suppliers is around 16 times the gap between Rabat and Madrid.
Morocco's success in the tomato export market is a notable achievement, particularly given the competitive nature of the industry. The country's ability to increase its sales while other major suppliers experience declines demonstrates its growing importance as a supplier to the EU.
The growth in Morocco's tomato exports has significant implications for the country's economy, particularly in terms of employment and revenue generation. The sector is likely to continue playing a vital role in Morocco's agricultural industry.
As the EU continues to rely on imports to meet its tomato demands, Morocco is well-positioned to maintain its position as a leading supplier. The country's focus on quality and competitiveness will be crucial in sustaining its market share.
Key points
- Morocco has become the second-largest supplier of tomatoes to the EU, surpassing Spain.
- Morocco's tomato exports to the EU have increased by 22.17% since the 2016/2017 season.
- The Netherlands remains the leading supplier of tomatoes to the EU, with a significant gap in volume and value compared to Morocco.
