The Moroccan agri-food sector is growing every season, both in terms of production and market share on the European continent. It is becoming a very serious competitor of Spanish regions, such as the province of Almeria, in vegetable sales.
According to a 2018 study by ICEX Spain Exports and Investments, the agricultural sector contributes 19% to Moroccan GDP and employs more than 40% of the active population. In addition, a high percentage of the rural population – around 75% – works in agriculture.
The latest studies show that, during the 2015/2016 season, the Ministry of Agriculture calculated that overall agricultural production stood at over 30 million tonnes. In the fruit and vegetable sector, production was estimated at over 11 million tonnes.
This food production has been experiencing an increase since 2008, when the Moroccan government approved ‘Le Maroc Vert’ (Green Morocco Plan), which aimed to support agriculture to allow it to contribute to the development of the economy, in view of the importance of this sector in the country.
“Le Maroc Vert”: what it entails
The “Le Maroc Vert” plan was approved in 2008 with the aim of turning agriculture into a driving force for social and economic development in Morocco. It has two main aims:
- The first is focused on modernising the sector as a whole, so that it achieves high productivity and meets the demands of the market. The intention is to develop agricultural exports and industrial activities related to agriculture.
- The other aim is to improve the living conditions of small-scale farmers, fight poverty in rural areas by increasing farming incomes and promote solidarity agriculture by launching several farmers’ cooperatives.
The agriculture market has experienced nothing but growth since 2008.This has led to the creation of agricultural cooperatives, improved cooperation between the State and sector professionals, the mechanisation of agricultural processes and the management of the water economy. The production and quality of agricultural products, including fruits and vegetables has also improved considerably.
Exports in Morocco
The main destination for Moroccan fruit and vegetable exports is Europe, particularly Spain.
Market studies point at Morocco as the largest supplier to the fruit and vegetable import market in Spain. Up until October 2017, it experienced a growth of 36% when compared to the previous year, and it is still strengthening its position year after year.
The importance of packaging at the point of sale
Studies show that more than half of consumers change their choice of purchase at the point of sale, so taking great care over packaging is an essential part of attracting the customer’s attention.
Recently, customers who value the advantages of using Green Box have put their trust in our packaging for importing products from Morocco.
What are the advantages of using Green Box as a packaging system?
Product protection
The box has a wood frame and vertical ventilation. Product preservation and incidents also depend on the load, assembly and transport conditions.
Packaging materials
The boxes combine wood, cardboard and plastic. Comparing material use requires a defined format and reference unit.
Transport costs
Packaging and transport costs depend on the format, load and route. Ask for the terms applicable to your operation.
Store display
Green Box can be used to display fruit and vegetables in stores. Configuration and handling depend on each operation.
Sustainable Packaging
After use, Green Box recovers wood and plastic components for reuse and cardboard for recycling. Collection is arranged with each customer according to the route and agreed terms.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about this article
What does the article discuss?
It examines the development of Morocco’s agri-food sector and exports in the period covered by the publication.
Why does the article discuss packaging?
It considers the protection and presentation of produce during distribution and at the point of sale.
Which Moroccan initiative is mentioned?
The article discusses the Le Maroc Vert plan as part of the sector’s development.
Why does the article mention packaging at the point of sale?
Packaging can help present the produce and affect how it is handled when it reaches the store.
What should be checked when choosing packaging for an export route?
Consider product protection, packaging weight and the handling requirements at both ends of the route.