Browse Data and Analysis

The Algerian Minister of Agriculture forecasts Algerian grain production to reach 3 to 3.2 million metric tons (MMT) in MY2022/23. This is an increase from last marketing year and supports the Algerian policy to increase domestic production.

Morocco is a price-sensitive market that does not showcase significant quantities of U.S. food and beverages in the retail sector. In 2021, U.S. exports of consumer-oriented products to Morocco doubled, reaching $166 million. Post has identified limited volumes of U.S. seafood, chocolates, sauces, and spirits available on select Moroccan retail shelves.

The Fork and the Road program is designed to introduce and educate consumers in the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, and Oman (known as the GCC 4) about the variety and diversity of regional American foods and food culture.

UAE’s overall economic recovery will boost consumption and imports of grain and feed in MY 2022/23. The Ukraine conflict and other factors contributing to high commodity prices and food security may put downward pressure on UAE consumption in MY 2021/22.

Morocco is facing low wheat production in marketing year 2022/23 due to drought. The Ministry of Agriculture forecasts total wheat and barley production at 3.2 million metric tons, about 62 percent down from the previous year’s crop (10.2 million metric tons).

Post production estimates for tangerines/mandarins, oranges, lemons, and orange juice remain unchanged from the December 9, 2021 Annual Citrus Report. MY 2021/22 export figures are revised based on trade data.

Morocco notified G/SPS/N/MAR/85 on June 10, 2022. An unofficial translation is included in this report. Comments are due no later than August 9, 2022. The notification concerns plants, plant products and other objects.

Morocco notified G/SPS/N/MAR/56/Add.3 on June 16, 2022. The notification publishes the final version of the draft sanitary document for export to Morocco of plants and plant products as well as food products that are not subject to mandatory veterinary certification.

U.S. exports of consumer-oriented food products to Saudi Arabia decreased four percent in 2021, compared to 2020, to approximately $535 million mainly due to shipping issues (e.g., fewer cargo ships, higher costs, etc.) throughout the year. Unfortunately, this trend is expected to continue throughout 2022.

After more than 100 days of the Russian-Ukrainian war, wheat prices have surged almost 60 percent globally, hitting their highest levels in 14 years. Egypt, similar to the rest of the world, has been affected by the impacts of this war, especially since 82 percent of its wheat imports over the last five years originated in Russia and Ukraine.

On June 2, 2022, the Government of Morocco suspended customs duties on sunflower, soybean, and rapeseed. This measure will take effect starting June 3, 2022 and continue until further notice. This decision is intended to protect citizens’ purchasing power in the face of rising global prices of various essential goods.

Morocco notified G/SPS/N/MAR/84 on May 12, 2022. An unofficial translation is included in this report. Comments are due no later than July 11, 2022. The notification concerns shelf life and storage temperature requirements for cheese and cheese products.