Spain Strengthens Import Inspections for Moroccan Agricultural Produce

Spain has implemented a new inspection system at the Port of Algeciras to tighten controls on agricultural imports from Morocco, addressing demands from domestic farmers for greater oversight. This pilot project introduces a unified inspection framework under the direct supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food.

The enhanced measures, which will later expand to the ports of Barcelona and Valencia, streamline inspection processes that previously involved multiple departments such as Health and Commerce. A single team of agronomists and veterinarians now oversees import checks, aiming to ensure compliance with European Union regulations on labeling and phytosanitary standards.

According to EuropaSur, Algeciras handles 60% of Spain’s vegetable imports from non-EU countries, making it a key testing ground for these stricter procedures. Farmers have long expressed concerns over competition from imported produce, citing disparities in production standards and costs.

Addressing Farmer Concerns

Spanish farmers, represented by organizations like the Union of Small Farmers and Ranchers (UPA), welcomed the initiative. UPA Vice Secretary Cristóbal Cano emphasized that the new system consolidates control under the Ministry of Agriculture, addressing inefficiencies and delays at the border.

Agricultural groups like COAG have raised issues about uneven competition, noting differences in labor regulations and the use of phytosanitary products between EU and non-EU countries. COAG's provincial secretary, Andrés Góngora, urged Brussels to address these discrepancies.

Economic Pressures and Trade Dynamics

The timing of these measures coincides with significant challenges for Spain's agricultural sector. Rising costs for fertilizers, fuel, and electricity have increased production expenses by over 30% in 2022. At the same time, Spain has been paying more for Moroccan fruit imports while receiving lower volumes, with costs per kilogram rising by 30% in the first half of 2024.

El Economista reports that Spanish agri-food companies are increasingly moving operations to Morocco, where 50 Spanish firms now operate, representing 16% of all Spanish businesses in the country.

Initial Results and Future Plans

Early results from the pilot program have been promising, with agricultural organizations participating directly in the inspection process for the first time. This collaboration is expected to enhance food safety while addressing longstanding grievances from Spanish producers.

UPA representatives have pledged ongoing involvement in refining the system to balance trade dynamics and bolster domestic agriculture.

The initiative underscores Spain's commitment to safeguarding its agricultural industry while ensuring fair trade practices within the EU framework.