The combination of climatic and biological challenges in Morocco has led to a severe deficit of round tomatoes within the country. To stabilize the situation, authorities have shifted from strict prohibitions to a "soft power" tactic, convincing producers to redirect export flows to the tables of their compatriots, writes EastFruit citing FreshPlaza. The current deficit came as no surprise—warnings of a shortage of winter varieties were issued as early as November. However, the situation has worsened due to the layering of several factors: Phytosanitary threat: The spread of the ToBRFV and Tuta Absoluta viruses has significantly reduced the yield of round tomatoes. Natural disaster: A powerful storm hit the Sous-Massa region at the end of February. The wind destroyed greenhouses over thousands of hectares, destroying both the plants and the costly infrastructure. Withdrawal of players: Many farmers, unable to withstand the lack of labor and building materials (plastic for ...