W9 Tomato Update: Spain's Tomato Export Challenges amidst Growing Competition, Morocco's Success in EU Market

Published 2024년 3월 8일

In W9 in the tomato landscape, Spain's tomato exports to the EU have declined over the past five years, with market share shrinking by 25.2%, placing Spain behind the Netherlands and Morocco. Meanwhile, Moroccan and Turkish tomato exports to the EU have surged, growing by 18.86% and 147.28%, respectively. Spanish farmers attribute this decline to perceived regulatory inequalities favoring competitors and have protested for fairer conditions. Conversely, Morocco's fruit and vegetable exports, particularly greenhouse tomatoes, have thrived in markets like Poland, with an impressive 67% average annual growth rate over five years. Additionally, Canada has emerged as a significant market for Moroccan exports, showcasing a consistent 21% annual import growth rate.

Spain's Tomato Exports to EU Decline as Competition from Morocco and Türkiye Rises

Spanish tomato exports to the European Union (EU) have witnessed a decline in recent years, while competition from other countries, particularly Morocco and Türkiye, has grown significantly. Spain's market share as a tomato supplier to the EU has decreased by 25.2% in the past five years, leading to a third-place ranking behind the Netherlands and Morocco. Morocco and Türkiye have experienced significant export growth to the EU in the same period, with increases of 18.86% and 147.28%, respectively.

The growing presence of other exporting countries is challenging Spain's historical dominance in the EU tomato market. Spanish farmers argue that stricter EU regulations and administrative procedures disadvantage them compared to third countries with potentially less stringent requirements. This perceived lack of a "level playing field" contributes to their discontent. The decline in market share and perceived unfair competition have led to protests by Spanish farmers, demanding greater regulatory equality and streamlined administrative processes.

Morocco's Tomato Exports Gain Traction in Poland

Morocco's fruit and vegetable export sector has witnessed impressive growth, with Poland emerging as a key market exhibiting strong dynamics. Over the past five years, Moroccan exports of fruits and vegetables to Poland have experienced a remarkable average annual growth rate of 67%. While Poland still accounts for a relatively small share (approximately 1%) of Morocco's total fruit and vegetable exports, the rapid growth trajectory signifies significant potential.

Moroccan exports to Poland are primarily concentrated on greenhouse tomatoes, fresh blueberries, and frozen and fresh raspberries. However, the supply of other products is also exhibiting positive growth trends. Meanwhile the United Kingdom (UK) remains the absolute leader in terms of increased import expenditure on Moroccan fruits and vegetables with USD 110 million annual increase. Geographically distant from Morocco, Canada has also emerged as a noteworthy market, demonstrating a consistent annual import growth rate of 21% with USD 18 million increase. This has propelled Canada into the top seven most significant markets for Moroccan fruit and vegetable exports.