Morocco's agro‑food exports hit record high as trade deficit widens in 2026

Morocco's agro‑food sector reached a historic export value of 86.2 billion dirhams in 2025, a 38 % increase from 2020, and shipped 4.7 million tonnes, up 9 % in volume. The sector now accounts for about 18 % of the kingdom's total exports and is the third‑largest source of foreign exchange. The record was presented at a Morocco Foodex board meeting chaired by Agriculture Minister Ahmed El Bouari.

Despite the export surge, the country's trade deficit expanded to 198.38 billion dirhams in the first half of 2026, with the coverage ratio falling to 56.8 %. Imports rose 15.3 % to 458.77 billion dirhams, driven by raw materials, finished equipment and consumer goods. Exports grew 9.7 % to 260.39 billion dirhams, led by automotive (up 17.4 %) and aerospace (up 19.3 %) sectors, while agriculture and agri‑food grew 5.7 %. Textile, electronics and phosphate exports declined. A services surplus partially offset the widening goods deficit. Citrus exports were hit by extreme weather, reducing volumes.