Morocco halts African tomato exports amid high domestic prices

Morocco has temporarily halted tomato exports to African countries to secure domestic supply and curb rising prices, according to industry leaders and government sources. The halt comes as tomato prices have skyrocketed due to reduced productivity in the Souss-Massa region, along with increased fertilizer and fuel expenses. Morocco is a leading tomato exporter to the EU but has a modest African market.

FIFEL president Lahoucine Aderdour confirmed the temporary suspension, stating it is intended to organize the market, while a government source hinted at a resumption soon. The decision does not affect tomatoes sold in Europe. Moroccan authorities have previously restricted exports of fresh produce to favor local consumption. While the government did not comment on the export pause, it emphasized its commitment to "food sovereignty."

Recently, Finance Minister Fouzi Lekjaa announced plans to regulate food exports to reduce prices. The Moroccan government has also maintained subsidies for transport to keep food costs in check and is set to launch regional distribution firms to minimize middlemen and lower food expenses. Agricultural exports grew by 4.3% year-on-year to reach 33.1 billion dirhams in the first nine months of 2026.