Morocco has set a new record by importing 35,000 tons of shelled almonds from the United States in the first 11 months of 2024, according to data from Eastfruit. This import volume, valued at $174.5 million, marks an 18% increase compared to the previous year. The rise in Morocco's imports of US shelled almonds has been consistent since 2017, with the exception of 2022. The growth trend resumed in 2023, and the import volume in 2024 was noted to be «38 times higher than that of 2017». The United States remains the dominant supplier of shelled almonds to Morocco, accounting for 99% of the country's total imports in the first 11 months of 2024. While Morocco also sources almonds from Spain, Portugal, Algeria, Italy, and the Netherlands, these quantities are significantly smaller. Morocco ranks eighth among the USA's almond export destinations, holding a 5% share of the market. This surge in nut imports indicates a growing consumption trend in Morocco, with almonds being particularly favored by Moroccan consumers. In Morocco, almonds now rank second in annual import value, trailing only behind dates. As of the first 11 months of 2024, Morocco is among the top 10 global importers of shelled almonds. In addition to importing, Morocco is also active in exporting shelled almonds. In 2024, the country exported 215 tons to destinations including Denmark, Italy, and Germany. Meanwhile, Morocco's domestic almond production (in shell) reached 146,000 tons in 2023.
