Established in 2007 with commercial production beginning in 2008, African Blue Morocco has become a significant player in the country’s blueberry sector. The company currently manages around 345 hectares of blueberry cultivation across northern and southern Morocco and operates as part of the wider African Blue and Costa Group global network.

In response to shifting market demands—particularly the increasing focus on fruit size, consistency, and quality—African Blue initiated a 10-year redevelopment strategy in 2021. The plan aims to replant and develop over 706 hectares by 2031, using Costa’s proprietary blueberry varieties, including Eterna, Breeze, and Cascade.

Now in its fourth year, the strategy is beginning to deliver results. Newly redeveloped farms are showing improved yields and fruit quality. Initial commercial harvests of the Cascade variety grown in soil are expected to exceed 15 tonnes per hectare, reflecting the performance potential of the new varieties under Moroccan conditions.

To support the production growth, African Blue has also upgraded its post-harvest capabilities. Its 10,000-square-metre packing facility in Larache has been enhanced with a 12-lane Elefab mechanical packing line to improve efficiency and throughput. This facility plays a key role in the company’s export programs, helping maintain consistent product standards for international markets. Primary export destinations include the European Union, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Asia.

Morocco’s blueberry sector has expanded rapidly in recent years. The country exported approximately 67,300 tonnes of blueberries in the 2023/24 season, with projections indicating exports could exceed 85,000 tonnes by 2025/26. African Blue is among the companies contributing to this growth and helping to establish Morocco’s reputation as a supplier of quality fruit.

In addition to current production, the company continues to evaluate and adapt new Costa blueberry varieties to local conditions. This process aims to align future offerings with evolving consumer demands and environmental factors.

With continued investment in genetics and infrastructure, African Blue Morocco is seeking to expand its role within the international blueberry industry, as Morocco strengthens its position among leading global exporters.

For more information:
Costa Group
Tel: +61 03 8363 9000
Email: [email protected]
www.costagroup.com.au