Egyptian Exporter Acknowledges Moroccan Superiority in Mandarins
In a recent interview with British trade media, Hesham El Naggar, a leading figure in an Egyptian fruit export company, expressed his admiration for Moroccan mandarins, stating, "Morocco is better than us when it comes to mandarins." He attributes this quality advantage to Morocco's coastal production regions, which create ideal conditions for cultivating these citrus fruits. This acknowledgment comes as Egyptian exporters are keen to expand their presence in European markets, particularly in the UK.
Challenges for Egyptian Citrus Exports
Egyptian citrus producers are facing increasing competition from countries like China and have encountered challenges accessing the Russian market. This has led many producers to shift their focus towards Europe, which could intensify price pressures there. El Naggar emphasizes the importance of maintaining high fruit quality in their commercial strategy, questioning the logic of sending immature citrus during the peak Spanish season when consumers have access to superior quality fruits. He warns that selling lower-quality products at reduced prices could alienate consumers in the long run.
Morocco's Competitive Edge in Premium Mandarins
Morocco holds a significant advantage in the high-end mandarin segment, with varieties such as Nadorcott and SweetCott being recognized for their superior taste. These qualities enable Moroccan producers to compete in markets where price is not the sole purchasing criterion. According to data from EastFruit, between October 2025 and April 2026, Morocco exported 76,000 tons of mandarins to the UK, generating over £60 million in revenue. This volume represents a nearly 20% increase year-on-year, allowing Morocco to surpass Spain and capture about half of the UK market.
Despite his praise for Moroccan mandarins, El Naggar defends the quality of Egyptian oranges, claiming they are sweeter than their Moroccan counterparts. Rather than engaging in direct competition with Moroccan mandarin producers, he advocates for a complementary relationship between the two countries to boost overall citrus consumption.
As reported by bladi.net.
