The Moroccan Paradox: Watermelon Exports Thrive Despite Water Crisis
Despite government bans aimed at limiting watermelon cultivation in several regions of Morocco due to the severe decline in water tables, the kingdom remains a world leader in the export of the fruit. However, the authorities had banned this water-intensive crop, particularly in the southeast of the country, in the face of persistent drought that threatens water resources.
Moroccan watermelon exports to Spain have nevertheless experienced significant growth in the first five months of 2024. According to the specialized portal “HortoInfo”, Morocco exported 37.68% of the watermelons imported by Spain between March and May 2024, an increase of 15.2% compared to the same period in 2015. In terms of value, these exports reached 17.18 million euros, compared to 10.61 million euros in 2015.
The average price of Moroccan watermelons has also increased, from 0.60 euros per kilogram in 2015 to 0.85 euros in 2024. This increase reflects the sustained demand for this fruit, despite the restrictions imposed on its cultivation.
Morocco is not alone in this export dynamic. Senegal has become the second largest supplier of watermelons to Spain during the same period, with a 273.2% increase in its exports since 2015. Mauritania, for its part, has recorded a spectacular increase of 1190% in its exports to Spain, placing it in third position among suppliers.
In Spain, the main provinces importing Moroccan watermelons are Valencia, which represented 18.95% of the total, followed by Almería with 18.71%. Other regions such as Barcelona, Seville and Murcia also imported significant volumes.
Faced with these results, Moroccan authorities are faced with a dilemma. The bans are aimed at preserving the country’s water resources, but the export success highlights the economic stakes for local producers. The situation could lead to a reassessment of the country’s agricultural policies, as pressures on water resources continue to intensify.
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