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Morocco World
25-03-2025
- Health
- Morocco World
Germany Pulls Moroccan Peppers from Market Over Pesticide Concerns
Rabat – German authorities have withdrawn a shipment of Moroccan peppers after tests showed high levels of Abamectin, a pesticide that poses serious health risks. The peppers reached Germany through Spanish importers, according to Hortoinfo. Documents from the European Commission confirm that inspections detected Abamectin levels at 0.12 mg/kg, four times higher than the maximum allowed residue of 0.03 mg/kg. The European food safety system classified the case as serious and prompted immediate action to remove the peppers from the market. Abamectin is widely used in agriculture to control insects and mites. It targets the nervous system of pests, causing paralysis and eventual death. While effective for pest control, the chemical raises concerns due to its toxicity. Exposure through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact may lead to dizziness, nausea, vomiting, tremors, and, in severe cases, respiratory failure. Authorities in Germany regularly test imported produce to ensure compliance with food safety standards. The discovery of excessive pesticide levels in Moroccan peppers is one of the many examples of ongoing challenges in monitoring chemical residues in fresh food. While European regulations set strict limits on pesticide use, occasional violations raise questions about oversight in supply chains. With the recall in effect, German authorities remain focused on preventing contaminated produce from reaching consumers. Importers and distributors may now face increased scrutiny as regulators work to ensure compliance with European health and safety standards. Although Europe bans these hazardous chemicals to safeguard public health and the environment, they are still sold to disadvantaged countries for profit. In 2020, a study revealed that Morocco is one of the top destinations for European countries exporting toxic pesticides that are banned in the EU.
Morocco World
02-03-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Morocco's Pepper Exports to EU Rise by 65.6% as Spain's Fall by 26.4%
Rabat – Morocco is expanding its position in the European Union pepper market, with exports up for 15 years. Although Spain remains the EU leader in pepper supplying, its sales have been going down for five consecutive years, paving the way for Moroccan peppers to elevate their profile. A report from Hortoinfo, based on Euroestacom (ICEX-Eurostat) data, records these shifts. In 2024, Spain accounted for 37.75% of all peppers sold in the EU, followed by the Netherlands at 20.64%. Morocco ranked third, supplying 13.26% of the market, ahead of Turkiye, which held a 7.49% share. Spain's pepper exports to the EU have fallen by 26.4% since 2019, while the Netherlands recorded a 20.65% drop. Morocco, on the other hand, increased its shipments by 65.6% over the same period. Turkiye also saw an uptick, with exports rising by 46.93%. Although Spain and the Netherlands continue to lead in volume sales, Morocco's steady growth bodes for a more competitive market. Spain exported 535.58 million kilograms in 2024 — 192.13 million kg less than in 2019. The Netherlands followed with 292.84 million kg, marking a decline of 76.23 million kg. Morocco moved up the ranks by exporting 188.13 million kg, an increase of 74.52 million kilograms compared to 2019. Turkiye's shipments grew by 33.94 million kg, reaching a total of 106.25 million kg. Morocco's presence in the EU market has translated into higher revenues. In 2024, its pepper exports brought in €235.41 million, more than double the €113.4 million recorded in 2019. The average price of Moroccan peppers rose to €1.25 per kg, up from €1 per kg in 2019. Spain still leads in revenue, earning €1.16 billion in 2024, an increase of €52.12 million from 2019. Higher prices helped offset declining volumes, with Spanish peppers selling for €2.16 per kg, compared to €1.52 five years earlier. Spain and the Netherlands still dominate EU pepper sales, but their decreasing export volumes suggest a shift in the market. Morocco continues to expand its foothold, positioning itself as a stronger competitor in the years ahead. Tags: fruit and vegetables in MoroccoMorocco exportmorocco spain trade
