Morocco in negotiations with Russia for tomato campaign

For several years, Morocco has been committed to achieving a better market diversification for its main agricultural products. One of its most important markets, besides the EU, is the Russian market, and because of this there are frequent meetings between both partners to promote trade exchanges.

Prior to the start of the agricultural season, a trade mission formed by some thirty Moroccan companies have taken part in World Food Moscow, one of the most important agricultural fairs. The mission has been organised by the Autonomous Establishment for Export Control and Coordination (EACCE).

From January 2016, the EACCE will be the exclusive body for the promotion of agricultural product exports. Russia is a very interesting market for Moroccan exporters due to the growing purchasing power of Russian consumers.

The Russian market relies on imports from overseas suppliers, especially when it comes to food products. It is the world's 10th largest importer. For its part, Morocco is Russia's 7th largest supplier.

During the fair, the Moroccan companies managed to establish contact with major importing groups, focusing on quality issues and preparing for the 2015-2016 export season, mainly for citrus fruit and tomatoes.

However, according to Moroccan operators, the Russian market is a dilemma due to the difficulties encountered in the export process. On the one hand, it is a strategic market for the country's fruit and vegetables, but on the other, exporters need to make great efforts, especially as regards the improvement of product quality.

To facilitate this process, the EACCE has opened a permanent office in Saint Petersburg to ensure better monitoring on arrival of containers, labelling, prices, etc. 

And while this office has led to an improvement in the situation of exporters, the complaints about non-payments from Russian importers, mostly as a result of the volatility of the Rouble, have been one of the main topics discussed at the meetings held between Moroccan exporters and their Russian partners.