The pepper harvest within the Chtouka region located near Agadir is coming at the conclusion of their highest point, according to Obeida Mansour who is the chief executive officer for Universal Peppers.
The farmer says “We saw peak harvest from the month of January to February. This was a month later than normal, due to the increased temperatures in this season. Changes in the climate have been a major influence on the harvest, since the peak of harvest was later than usual, despite the delayed spring.”
Obeida adds, “We have also seen that the volumes of harvested during the peak season are less than in the past, which could be due to the conditions.”
The TSW and PMMV diseases are still taking a heavy toll on the peppers of Morocco According to Obeida. “The effects vary from one producer to the next. In the case of Universal Peppers, we’re lucky by the fact that just 800 of our 22,000 plants per hectare are affected. We’re removing them from the field when they’re identified.”
The demand from overseas in Moroccan peppers is extremely low, according to the company behind it. “Restrictions regarding the entrance of Moroccan products to West African markets are certainly an element. Additionally, European demand has weakened because of the warm weather within Europe.”
Moroccan Peppers’ harvest should last until June, provided there are no unexpected developments, which means a second high harvest is possible according to Obeida. “If temperatures are stable through the time of harvest that range from 25 to 32 degrees during day time and between 15 and 20 at night, there is bound to have a second peak in harvest.”
However The producer insists that they will keep the same number of acres of peppers next year. The producer concludes “The difficulties at the beginning of the season may have affected its progress, but the impact isn’t catastrophic and we are hoping to have a good start for this season.”
More information is available here:
Obeida Mansour
Universal Peppers
Tel: +212663612461
Email: Obeida@universalpeppers.ma