Spain Is Displaced and Morocco's Tomatoes Invade Europe

The growing presence of Morocco in the European tomato market has displaced Spain from the third position as a supplier to the European Union. According to the latest data from Euroestacom (ICEX-Eurostat), in 2024 the Maghreb country exported 579,792 metric tons (639,000 tons) of tomatoes to the EU. this, with a value of 999.04 million euros, while Spain sent 531,766.4 metric tons (586,000 tons) for 933.82 million euros.

Spanish farmers attribute this loss of market share to the low production costs in Morocco and the preferential treatment within the trade agreement with the EU. They also denounce that the Moroccan monarchy subsidizes between 50% and 70% of the value of its production. Meanwhile in Spain producers face high tax costs, water scarcity and stricter environmental regulations.

Another determining factor is the non-compliance with trade quotas. According to the Coordinator of Farmers and Ranchers Organizations, Morocco has exceeded in recent years the quota of duty-free tomatoes. Thus, introducing about 500,000 metric tons (551,000 tons) annually into the EU, which has resulted in an estimated tax evasion of 71.7 million euros over five years.

Additionally, Rabat has expanded its production to Western Sahara, a disputed territory. From where it exports tomatoes labeled as Moroccan under the free trade agreement with the EU, which strengthens its competitiveness in the European market.

The leadership in tomato exportation in the EU remains in the hands of the Netherlands, with 743,291.8 metric tons (819,000 tons) marketed in 2024. However, Morocco has significantly reduced the gap and, if this trend continues, it could become the main tomato supplier to the community bloc in the coming years.