W2 Tomato Update: Turkey's Tomato Exports Surge, Morocco Grapples with Production Challenges, and Tensions Rise in EU and Mexican Markets

Tomato Exports in Turkey Surged by 42.8% YoY in 2023

Turkey's tomato exports increased by 42.8% year-over-year (YoY) in 2023 to USD 538.7 million, with Ukraine being the largest importer. The Southeast Anatolia Exporters Association reported that Turkey exported USD 377.19 million of tomatoes to 54 countries in 2023. Romania was the most exported country, followed by Ukraine, Poland, and Germany. The President of the Association of Investors and Producers of Greenhouse Vegetables sees the increase in tomato exports as a positive development for the country's economy and aims for Turkey to take first place in the production of greenhouse vegetables in Europe.

Moroccan Tomato Anticipated To Experience 20% to 30% YoY Production Drop in 2023/24 Season Amidst Challenges from ToBRFV and Unfavorable Weather

Moroccan Interprofessional Federation of Fruits and Vegetables (FIFEL) indicates that Morocco's tomato production is expected to decrease by 20% to 30% YoY in the 2023/24 season, with the most significant decline in the round tomato. The decline in production is due to high summer temperatures, the Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV), and early cold, causing difficulties in fruit ripening. The delay in planting due to uncertainty among producers and lack of visibility has further exacerbated the situation. A safeguarding committee has been established to address these challenges and potential threats to production.

Tomato Prices Plunge in Morocco and Ministry Implements Export Quota Cut Amid ToBRFV Virus Crisis and Industry Concerns

Moroccan tomato prices have dropped to USD 4.08 per kilogram (TRY 15/kg) in W2 due to a large supply of tomatoes, causing anger among citizens. The Ministry of Agriculture has reduced the daily quota of tomato exports to stabilize prices. The ToBRFV virus is causing significant disruptions in tomato production, particularly impacting the Safagri cooperative. The Interprofessional Federation of Fruits and Vegetables expresses concerns about the sector's future due to the virus and other factors like summer heatwaves.

Tensions Rise Between Moroccan and Spanish Farmers Over EU Import Regulations

Tensions between Moroccan and Spanish farmers intensify as dissatisfaction grows over the import regulations for tomatoes and other fruits in the European Union (EU). Spanish producers contend that the EU's measures are insufficient in restricting the influx of tomatoes from Morocco and Turkey, potentially posing a threat to them due to stringent European regulations. Moreover, Spanish farmers argue that products from third countries are not subjected to the same health checks as those from the EU, raising concerns about their quality.

Mexican Roma Tomato Prices Surged in the US Amidst Limited Volume

Roma tomato prices at FOB McAllen, United States (US), increased in W2, driven by a limited volume in main warehouses. This scarcity is attributed to lower harvest forecasts in key Mexican states such as Sinaloa and Sonora, which have been adversely affected by challenging climate conditions. The prices for 25-pound (lb) boxes, including Jumbo, X Large, Large, and Medium, range from USD 38 to 42. Prices are expected to continue rising in the coming weeks due to low inventories of Mexican products and the reported shortages in the Florida season at its harvest peak.