Recently, the export season for the Moroccan 'Shagonti' fruit has commenced, bringing significant volumes of this melon variety to European markets. Notably, it has made its debut at the Rungis International Market for fruits and vegetables in Paris, which stands as France's largest platform for fresh produce marketing.
The Moroccan 'Shagonti' continues to maintain a strong presence in European markets, benefitting from favorable growing conditions in various regions of the kingdom, including Dakhla, Marrakech, and to a lesser extent, Chtouka Ait Baha. The marketing season for this fruit typically extends until June and July each year.
Industry professionals have highlighted that the quality of Moroccan products in international markets is reflected in the 'Shagonti', enabling it to initially overcome competitive pressures. However, they anticipate a slight decline in exports this year due to recent climate fluctuations.
Habib Najmi, a commercial representative at the Rungis International Market, confirmed that the marketing season for the Moroccan 'Shagonti', also known as cantaloupe, has recently begun. He emphasized Morocco's strategic position as the leading supplier of this fruit in Africa to European markets.
Najmi elaborated that production typically starts in the Dakhla region by late February and early March, followed by Marrakech. The marketing season continues until the onset of summer. He noted that during the first three months of the season, this Moroccan product faces little competition, as it uniquely supplies the European market before French, Spanish, and Italian products are ready.
Moreover, he pointed out that 'Shagonti' represents a vital source of foreign currency for Morocco. It is a highly recognized product in Europe, particularly in France, where it enjoys popularity comparable to other Moroccan products like tomatoes and citrus fruits.
Despite these positive aspects, Najmi anticipates lower production compared to last year due to recent climatic disruptions, similar to trends observed in other agricultural products.
Abdelaziz Al-Maanawi, president of the Chtouka Agricultural Producers Association, emphasized the competitive advantage of Moroccan products, as they are among the first to enter European markets during this time of year. He revealed that the leadership in 'Shagonti' production in Morocco belongs to Dakhla, followed by Marrakech and the Tensift region, with Chtouka Ait Baha coming next.
Al-Maanawi also stressed the significance of this product, alongside other agricultural goods, in bolstering Morocco's agricultural exports, thus contributing to the generation of foreign currency. He urged for the utilization of Morocco's experience in producing watermelons and similar varieties, as active farms in the southeastern region previously provided substantial employment opportunities before administrative decisions restricted these activities due to recent drought conditions.
As reported by hespress.com.
