Moroccan citrus exports rebound and Spain faces disease pressure
Morocco has recorded a significant rebound in lemon exports during the 2024/2025 campaign, reaching record levels, while Spain's Murcia region faces the spread of citrus yellow vein chlorosis affecting lemon groves.
Morocco continues to strengthen its position in the European citrus market, with a marked increase in lemon exports during the 2024/2025 season. Moroccan citrus, especially Nadorcott mandarins and lemons, are experiencing strong demand in the EU and UK markets. The current campaign is marked by a recovery in production after previous years of drought and water stress, supported by heavy spring rainfall in key agricultural regions.
The Moroccan citrus sector is now considered a major competitor to Spain on the European market, with Morocco becoming the leading challenger in the UK and Northern European countries. Exporters report a continued upward trend and diversification of destinations, including Poland, where Moroccan citrus is increasingly present.
In Spain, the Region of Murcia has detected 73 cases of citrus yellow vein chlorosis, affecting 208 hectares across 16 municipalities, with the disease particularly impacting lemon orchards. Farmer organizations are calling for the immediate removal of infected trees and compensation for growers, raising concerns over the future supply of Spanish lemons from this region.
Tradin Organic has finalized the acquisition of Citromil, a major organic citrus processor based in Murcia. This move aims to strengthen supply chain integration and ensure continued service to European clients, including those in Poland, despite local disease challenges.
Russian authorities recently blocked a shipment of 48.4 tonnes of Moroccan lemons at the port of Saint Petersburg. However, this incident does not appear to have affected Moroccan citrus flows to the EU, where demand remains robust and competition with Spanish suppliers is intensifying.
Material prepared by the editorial team of fresh-market.info, editor Artur Spiker