Berry operations in Morocco are using varietal selection to distribute supply across different market windows, while the sector is also examining post-harvest handling, cold chain management, and traceability. These topics were addressed during the XLIII International Soft Fruit Seminar Morocco 2026 and a technical tour of farms in Larache.
The delegation visited Afrique Berry, a member of the iBerry cooperative, and African Blue. Blueberry varieties observed included Sekoya Pop, Apex, Madeira, Cascade, and Eterna. Different varieties allow the farms to spread fruit availability across the season and respond to different commercial windows. The tour also included raspberry plantings.
Participants from Chile, Mexico, Spain, the Netherlands, Peru, and Morocco took part in the field visits. The delegation also visited Agropol, an agricultural supply park under construction in the area.
Post-harvest management was another focus during the seminar in Tangier. Handling after picking, the speed at which berries enter cold storage, and shelf life on arrival at the buyer were among the issues discussed.
"The cold chain needs improvement," said Philip Symons, EMEA Director of North Bay Produ...