The Moroccan watermelon season had only began, only to be delayed by Spanish claims of the high concentration of residues from pesticides. The accusations prompted Moroccan food safety officials to issue new export restrictions. The Moroccan watermelon industry is currently being subject to restrictions on production by authorities. They justify this by the water shortage in the country as well as the subsequent decrease in volume.

Said Aghzou, CEO of Valyour Said Aghzou, Valyour’s CEO stated: “The Spanish notice via RASSF affected the entire season right beginning at the beginning. When the notice was issued the watermelon exports were halted and a new process was implemented. ONSSA is now requiring exporters to conduct more pesticide residue tests on each harvest, i.e. every truck. This means delays on the issuance of the phytosanitary certificate along with higher expenses. This measure isn’t permanent and will be in place all through the duration of the campaign”.

Although the farmer, along with others, has denied the Spanish claims, he’s favorable to the latest ONSSA measures. The producer explains: “The incident reported by the Spanish party is a bit shady. However, ONSSA’s latest demands are firmly in the interest of the producers. While the initiative was initially misinterpreted by the producers however, the ONSSA team from the Agadir region worked closely with us to comprehend and agree with this latest requirement that will help protect Moroccan source and ensure high-quality products. In the event of false accusations It’s the only way we have to demonstrate the superiority of our product”.

The volumes of watermelon in Morocco in the coming season are likely to fall substantially. According to reports from industry sources there is a limit of production to 1.5 or 2 ha (depending upon the location) for authorized wells in specific regions like Zagora. In other areas like Tata Watermelon production has been completely banned this year. Both of these regions are important where watermelon is grown in Morocco.

According to Aghzou Aghzou, there should be enough quantities of Moroccan watermelons in the coming year. Aghzou says “In Taroudant region, one of the main sources for watermelons within Morocco The planting was in progress prior to when the restrictive measures went in force. Furthermore, new areas have begun to grow watermelons during this year.”

The farmer continues “I’m happy to announce that this year Valyour has adopted a different cultivating strategy that extends beyond Zagora and extends to other regions in the Grand Moroccan Sahara such as Touizguie so that we can more effectively meet the needs of our customers’ requirements. Quality of product is top-quality, resulting in the highest Brix. Sizes, ranging between 6 and 10 kilograms is ideal in the UK market. However, they’re a bit smaller to be used in those in the German markets.”

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Said Aghzou

Valyour

Tel: +212661552683

Email: contact@valyour.com