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Morocco's tomato prices surge to $1, driven by exports and weather

In recent days, Morocco has witnessed a sharp increase in tomato prices, causing concern among consumers. Wholesale prices reached MAD 220 ($22) per crate, translating to MAD 8 ($0.8) per kilogram, with retail prices escalating to MAD 10 ($1) per kilogram or more. Abdelkabir Maidan, Secretary-General of the Wholesale Market Association for Fruits and Vegetables in Casablanca, communicated to SNRTnews that the market is well-supplied, stating, "The availability exceeds demand." However, even lower-quality tomatoes are fetching high prices.

Maidan identified multiple factors behind the price surge, including strong competition from international markets and export agreements that favor shipments to Europe and Africa. He also cited inadequate oversight and poor market management as causes for the disparities between farmers, traders, and consumers, alongside the negative impact of intermediaries and speculators. "They are chasing quick profits at the expense of everyone—farmers, merchants, and consumers alike," he remarked. Additionally, Maidan highlighted the role of adverse natural conditions, such as limited rainfall and increasing production costs, in exacerbating the situation.

Bouazza Kherrati, President of the Moroccan Federation for Consumer Rights, emphasized the effect of cold weather on tomato yields and the subsequent price inflation. With the approach of Ramadan, a period of heightened food demand, Kherrati called for immediate action to mitigate the impact on Moroccan families, especially those with limited income. The Moroccan Federation for Consumer Rights has put forth proposals to stabilize the market, advocating for stricter control of wholesale and retail markets, combating unfair pricing practices, and enhancing consumer rights protection.

As the holy month nears, the urgency for measures to alleviate the financial strain on households grows, underscoring the need for swift intervention to address the crisis.

Source: Morocco World News

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