Morocco’s blueberry journey, success and future prospects

Morocco’s rise in the global blueberry market is driven by strategic investments, favorable agro-climatic conditions, and a forward-thinking approach to market diversification. What started as a small-scale venture in the early 1990s has evolved into a thriving industry, establishing the country as a key player in blueberry production.

The journey began with experimental berry cultivation in the early 1990s, but large-scale commercial production didn’t gain momentum until 2004. By 2005, a few Moroccan growers had started cultivating blueberries, primarily in the Loukos Gharb region in the north. Over the next decade, the industry experienced gradual but steady growth.

From 2015 onward, however, the industry experienced rapid expansion, driven by foreign investment and experienced growers. This growth expanded cultivation areas beyond Loukos Gharb to include regions like Agadir in the center-north and Dakhla in the south. By 2020, Morocco’s blueberry production had skyrocketed to 35,100 tons 19 times more than its 2005 output.

The current season’s harvest is expected to reach 80,000 tons, reflecting exceptionally favorable growing conditions. “Moroccan blueberries are recognized for their superior quality, but global demand for premium fruits is rising,” notes an industry expert. The combination of high-quality production and efficient logistics has positioned Morocco as a leading blueberry supplier, attracting strong demand, particularly from European and Middle Eastern markets.

Interest from Asia and North America is also growing, highlighting the industry’s expanding global presence. Morocco’s success extends beyond quality; the country has strategically developed unique blueberry varieties that align with international consumer preferences.

However, Morocco faces increasing competition from both emerging and established blueberry producers. As global production expands, Moroccan growers must continue innovating to maintain their competitive edge. Their emphasis on new, high-performing varieties and exceptional quality is paying off, with demand surging in international markets, including North America, which faced supply shortages last year. “We encountered supply challenges in North America last year due to competing market pressures. This year, we have focused on better distribution strategies to prevent bottlenecks,” an industry source explains.

Looking ahead, Morocco aims to further expand its blueberry production. The country is exploring ways to extend the harvest season by cultivating blueberries in southern regions such as Dakhla for early-season production and the Atlas Mountains for later harvests. This strategic expansion is expected to strengthen Morocco’s position in the global blueberry market.

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