Although Morocco is developing its domestic almond production, the nut’s growing popularity among Moroccan consumers means year-round imports, mainly from the US, are vital
Moroccan imports of almonds from the US have risen consistently since 2017, reaching an all-time high last year, according to a report from EastFruit.
In the first 11 months of 2024, Morocco imported over 35,000 tonnes of shelled almonds from the US, valued at US$174.5mn, representing an 18 per cent increase over 2023.
The US is the primary supplier of shelled almonds to Morocco, accounting for nearly 99 per cent of total imports.
Morocco imports almonds year round, with smaller quantities coming from Spain, Portugal, Algeria, Italy and the Netherlands. A slight dip in imports occurs during the local season between September and October.
According to FAOStat, Morocco’s domestic almond production reached 146,000 tonnes in 2023. In 2024, the country exported 215 tonnes of shelled almonds to Denmark, Italy and Germany.
Consumption of nuts is reportedly on the rise in Morocco, with almonds leading the way. The annual import value of almonds is second only to dates among fruit and vegetable products, according to EastFruit.
