Egyptian strawberry growers have doubled their prices this season, which Moroccan exporters regard as beneficial for their market position. The increase may help Moroccan strawberries compete more effectively, as many local growers are transitioning to alternative crops. Improved quality from favorable planting conditions may also impact Moroccan prices positively, although it remains uncertain how the market will react to these changes.
In a significant shift within the strawberry market, Egyptian growers have announced a doubling of fresh strawberry prices this season compared to last year. This development is perceived positively by Moroccan exporters, who have struggled to compete with Egypt’s low pricing. Ahmed Bouljid, a prominent exporter from Larache, articulated, “Egypt has long been exporting its strawberries at excessively low prices. This fierce competition has always influenced planting decisions in Morocco, but now we can only be relieved that Egypt is finally bringing its prices into line with the competition.”
Moroccan strawberry growers are reassessing their strategies in light of these changes. Bouljid noted that the competitive pressures from Egypt, compounded by adverse weather conditions, have led some producers to pivot towards growing blueberries or avocados. Consequently, the acreage dedicated to strawberry cultivation has diminished significantly, leading to later planting this season. As the first Moroccan strawberry harvests enter the market, there is cautious optimism regarding the prices, though Bouljid warns it is too early to form a definitive judgment on their market response. He stated, “We’ll have to wait for the arrival of consistent volumes to judge how the markets react to Egypt’s price increase.”
He highlighted an additional aspect; the quality of Moroccan strawberries has notably improved due to the later planting coinciding with favorable weather, potentially impacting their pricing favorably. However, Bouljid acknowledged that it is too late for local producers to capitalize on this new competitive landscape regarding planting volumes, emphasizing that any opportunity for growth in interest for strawberries in Morocco would likely emerge in the following season. He concluded, “In any case, it’s a relief to know that we’ll have a fairer competition.”
The strawberry market dynamics between Egypt and Morocco have long favored Egypt due to its lower pricing strategies, leading to significant challenges for Moroccan producers. As a result, many Moroccan growers have been compelled to alter their planting strategies or shift to cultivating alternative crops due to the competitive pressure. This year, due to increased pricing from Egyptian strawberry growers, there is a potential for Moroccan exporters to stabilize their market presence and improve profitability while also focusing on maintaining higher quality produce.
In summary, the recent price increases in Egyptian strawberries provide a potential boon for Moroccan exporters who have struggled under the pressure of lower pricing from their Egyptian counterparts. This season’s developments may usher in a more equitable competitive landscape, allowing Moroccan strawberries to regain some market footing, especially with the enhancement of their quality. Nonetheless, any significant changes in market dynamics may take time to materialize as growers align their strategies for the coming seasons.
Original Source: www.freshplaza.com
