HIBAPRESS – Economy
Morocco's exports of mandarin oranges to Russia witnessed a significant increase during the first months of 2025, with shipments reaching 31.6 thousand tons, an increase of 74 percent compared to the same period in 2024, during which exports did not exceed 18.2 thousand tons, according to the "freshplaza" platform.
This increase reflects the growing Russian demand for Moroccan citrus fruits, especially in light of international competition within one of the largest mandarin import markets in the world. Russian market data shows clear changes in distribution sources, as mandarin imports from South Africa rose by 42 percent and from China by 27.5 percent, while the quantities coming from Egypt decreased by 51 percent. Between January 1st and November 23rd, 2025, Russia imported 594.3 thousand tons of mandarin oranges, a decrease of 9 percent compared to the previous year. Turkey remained the main supplier with a 47 percent share, followed by South Africa (14%), then China (13%), then Egypt (11%), and then Morocco with 5 percent. Moroccan-Russian trade cooperation has exceeded the citrus sector, as Russia exported about $280 million worth of agricultural products to Morocco in 2024, mostly wheat, while Morocco increased its exports of vegetables, fruits, seafood, and citrus fruits to the Russian market. During the first half of 2025, the volume of trade between the two countries increased by 73 percent compared to the same period in 2024, which reflects a clear Moroccan trend towards diversifying markets and strengthening its presence within markets with high demand. Analysts confirm that Morocco's success in the Russian market is related to its production and logistical capabilities and its adherence to international quality standards, in addition to securing stable supplies from the main agricultural areas that produce citrus fruits. Expanding exports of other agricultural products is also part of a broader strategy to reduce dependence on traditional markets and keep pace with the rapid transformations in global trade. The recorded increase in mandarin exports during 2025 highlights Morocco's ability to adapt to market dynamics and strengthen its position in markets where citrus fruit consumption is growing.
