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Morocco’s watermelon exports surge despite prolonged drought
Morocco’s watermelon exports to France have seen a dramatic rise, increasing by 155% over the past decade, according to new data compiled by COMTRADE and shared by Hortoinfo. In 2015, Morocco exported 23.96 million kilograms of watermelons to France, a figure that soared to 61.13 million kilograms by 2024.
The United Kingdom also imported 9.94 million kilograms of Moroccan watermelons in 2024, while Spain purchased 28.7 million kilograms. These figures highlight Morocco’s growing role as a key supplier of the fruit, even as the country grapples with severe drought conditions that have persisted for at least six consecutive seasons.
Watermelons, known for their high water requirements, pose a unique challenge in Morocco’s arid climate. The crop requires consistent watering during its development phase, consuming approximately 1-2 inches of water weekly. This has raised concerns about water resource management, especially as Morocco faces increasing water scarcity.
In response to the crisis, Moroccan authorities have introduced measures to mitigate drought impacts and promote sustainable water use. These initiatives include public awareness campaigns on rational water consumption, restrictions on agricultural practices such as the slaughtering of female livestock to ensure herd reproduction, and even the cancellation of the Eid Al-Adha ritual sacrifice in recent years.
A 2025 report by the US-based National Drought Mitigation Center, conducted in collaboration with the UN Convention to Combat Desertification, identified Morocco as one of the most drought-prone nations in the Mediterranean basin. The findings reveal that Morocco’s climate has become increasingly arid since the early 1900s, with projections suggesting worsening conditions throughout the 21st century.
Despite these challenges, Morocco remains a significant player in the global agricultural market, balancing economic priorities with the urgent need to address water scarcity.