Morocco and Azerbaijan are enjoying substantial increases in their agricultural exports, showcasing their growing prominence on the international market. This year, as Moroccans ramped up their orange juice exports and Azerbaijanis boosted tomato shipments, both countries are demonstrating resilience and adaptability amid global market fluctuations.
According to EastFruit, Morocco has made remarkable strides this year, significantly increasing its orange juice exports to international markets. The country delivered over 11,000 tons of orange juice within the first nine months of 2024, achieving a total export value exceeding $18 million. This remarkable figure is 3.5 times higher than the exports recorded during the same period last year and 9% more than the previous record annual export from 2019.
The surge can be attributed mainly to decreased orange production in Brazil, the world's leading orange juice exporter. Due to unfavorable growing conditions, Brazil has experienced difficulties, leading to increased demand for Moroccan orange juice. The global crisis, which has disrupted supply chains and market dynamics, also played a role. Notably, the Netherlands emerged as the main destination for Morocco's orange juice exports, receiving 8,200 tons during the first nine months of this year. Other key importers include Switzerland (1,400 tons), France (600 tons), Germany (500 tons), and Senegal (140 tons).
Interestingly, the profile of Morocco's export market seems to be shifting as well. Where EU countries accounted for 74% to 85% of Morocco's orange juice export structure over previous years, this number has jumped to 96% in 2024. Morocco's status as one of Africa’s largest orange producers only adds weight to its growing reputation. It stands second only to Egypt and South Africa, positioning itself strategically to capitalize on decreases elsewhere.
On the other hand, Azerbaijan is also making headlines with its agricultural exports, particularly featuring its tomatoes. From January to November 2024, Azerbaijan exported 124,790 tons of tomatoes for a total value of $155,362,000, according to the State Customs Committee and reported by ABC.AZ. This value marks an increase of $14,893,000 compared to the same period last year, and the volume itself rose by 488 tons.
Throughout the first ten months of 2024, the average export price of Azerbaijani tomatoes reached 2.03 manats (approximately $1.19) per kilogram, presenting a 7.3% rise from the previous year when the price was at 1.89 manats ($1.11). It's noteworthy to point out, at this point, how tomatoes accounted for 0.64% of Azerbaijan's total exports during the same time frame. This steady growth reinforces Azerbaijan's emergence as a credible player in the international agricultural market.
Both Morocco and Azerbaijan are leveraging favorable market conditions and exploiting gaps created by decreased production elsewhere. The success of these two nations' agricultural exports not only signifies their individual economic growth but also reflects broader trends within the global market.
Looking forward, experts suggest monitoring how these countries will adapt to changing conditions, especially with developments surrounding climate patterns and international trade agreements. The remarkable potential seen this year can provide both nations invaluable experience, propelling them even higher on the list of global agricultural contributors.
Overall, increase agricultural exports reflect not just the resilience of Morocco and Azerbaijan during challenging times, but also serve as case studies for other countries aiming to expand their global market presence.
