Study of the processed fruits and vegetables subsector and recommendations for project activities

This study examines the extent and dynamics of Morocco"s fruit and vegetable product industry, focusing on apricots, tomatoes, pickles, green beans, and capers. Chapter one reviews the range of products produced and historical export partners, while Chapter two explores the structure of production and export, identifying actors in the sector and the flow of products from production to market. Chapter three provides an in-depth analysis of the main markets that Morocco supplies and the leading competitors in those markets. Chapter four delves into the quality of processed foods and food safety, while Chapter five discusses the supporting environment, including legislation and institutions. Major market trends, driving forces, and new opportunities leading up to a vision of what Morocco"s food processing future might hold, and recommendations for project support, are presented in Chapter six. The study concludes that for Moroccan agribusiness to remain competitive, the industry needs to take on the following characteristics: (1) greater vertical integration between production, processing, and marketing, together with reliance on market incentives; (2) a fair and enforceable basis for production contracts between growers and processors which resolves problems of supply, it being likely that larger farmers will develop contracts with processors, and smaller farmers will target the fresh market; (3) respect for food safety laws, with enforcement mechanisms in place; (4) increased focus on value-added products and away from semi-finished or low-value products; and (5) government organizations providing reliable forecasting information, regulatory services, and assistance in strategic analysis.