From Morocco to France: A Tomato Tale
Did you know that a juicy slice of tomato on your French baguette might have travelled all the way from Morocco? According to French newspaper Le Figaro, Morocco supplies over 70% of France’s imported tomatoes, making up a significant portion – at least 60% – of all fruit and vegetable imports from the North African nation. This vibrant trade relationship was highlighted when Morocco was chosen as the first foreign country of honor at the 2025 Paris International Agricultural Show, a testament to the growing agricultural partnership between the two countries.
This isn’t just a small exchange. Morocco holds the position of France’s ninth largest supplier overall. Agricultural and livestock products constitute approximately 20% of total French imports from Morocco, rivaling even the automotive industry (25.2%, according to French customs data). Within the agricultural sector, Morocco is the second largest supplier of fruits and vegetables to France, holding an 8% market share, just behind Spain at 19.5%. However, when it comes to tomatoes, Morocco reigns supreme, providing a whopping 72% of France’s tomato imports. This dominance translates to tomatoes comprising at least 60% of all fruit and vegetable imports from Morocco to France.
This influx of Moroccan tomatoes, however, has sparked controversy among French farmers. They argue that the 2012 free trade agreement, which exempts Moroccan tomatoes from customs duties in Europe, creates unfair competition. This agreement allows Moroccan tomatoes to be significantly more cost-competitive than their French counterparts, leading to what some describe as a “Moroccan tomato invasion” of French markets. The tension even led to protests last year, with French farmers dumping tons of Moroccan tomatoes onto roads and in supermarket parking lots.
Beyond tomatoes, the trade relationship extends to other produce. Sweet and hot peppers account for 7% of French fruit and vegetable imports from Morocco, followed by watermelons at 6%. Morocco also holds a strong position as the second largest supplier of cucumbers and zucchini to France. This diverse agricultural exchange underscores the importance of Morocco as a trading partner.
The overall trade volume between the two countries is substantial. In 2024, Morocco’s exports to France reached €7.43 billion, a 13% increase from the previous year. This growth demonstrates the strengthening economic ties and the increasing reliance of France on Moroccan agricultural products. While the “tomato wars” highlight the complexities of international trade, the overall relationship between Morocco and France in the agricultural sector remains a significant driver of economic activity for both nations. As consumer demand for fresh produce continues to grow, this fruitful partnership is likely to remain a key element of the Franco-Moroccan relationship.
Keywords: Morocco, France, tomato imports, agricultural trade, free trade agreement, French farmers, protests, economic partnership, fruit and vegetable imports, international trade.
