Two intense heat waves in June and August caused heavy losses for Moroccan avocado producers this summer. Estimates of the losses are contradictory. Producer representatives report significant volumes, reaching 80,000 tons, or half of the volumes expected this season. However, exporter representatives indicate much smaller losses and are concerned that this climatic incident is being exploited to reduce production figures in order to obtain better prices.

© Ahmed

For his part, Ahmed Bouljid, CEO of Entrepot Frigorifique Lexus, is keen to strike a balance. He says, “I have visited several farms and met producers at several sites. The damage is indeed significant, in the order of 80,000 tons. However, there will certainly be no shortage. Volumes will be similar to last season or slightly lower, around 95,000 to 100,000 tons, thanks to a considerable increase in acreage two or three years ago, where new areas are now coming into production.”

“I don’t think the officials of the Gharb producers’ association are exaggerating the extent of the losses. They are the ones who have suffered the most damage, given their geographical location. It should also be noted that production in this region is relatively old, dating back more than ten years, which means that the trees are older and more sensitive to intense heat. On the other hand, orchards near the coast and in the Larache region suffered less damage,” Bouljid continues.

Amidst the usual tug-of-war between producers and exporters over production figures, Bouljid accuses another party of spreading misinformation. “It is the middlemen who are spreading far-fetched figures about losses and taking advantage of the heatwave to fuel price hikes. It is in their interest that growers delay harvesting as long as possible in order to drive up prices. The avocado industry in Morocco is becoming more professional with each passing season, and their role is increasingly negligible, but they take advantage of climatic accidents to sow discord. They continue to have influence this season, and we can’t wait to get rid of them.”

The exporter is not ruling out a price increase at the start of the season. He explains, “Despite the availability of fruit, the season will probably start with prices higher than last season. Prices are already 15-20% higher for fruit on the tree compared to the same period last season. Losses and pressure on growers are naturally fueling this increase. However, the market will follow its normal course shortly after the campaign’s kick-off.”

“We must not forget that Morocco is not the only source of avocados. The area and volumes are increasing in Latin America, especially in Peru, and Israel does not have the same problems it had last year,” Bouljid concludes.

For more information:
Ahmed Bouljid
Entrepôt Frigorifique Lexus
Tel: +212 661-177735
Email: [email protected]