At Verdi Import, the Moroccan season is in full swing. "We receive several shipments of round and specialty tomatoes each week," says Mohamed Arab, who oversees imports from Morocco at the Barendrecht-based company. "Prices were high at the start of the season, around 2 euros per kilo. We receive multiple containers and trucks every week. Demand is strong, and with the issues in Spain, prices have tightened even further. Everything that comes in now is quickly distributed to customers."
Mohamed visited his Moroccan suppliers last month and noted that the growers have made significant strides in professionalization. "Moroccan tomatoes no longer need to be considered inferior to Spanish ones. However, the challenges for growers are considerable, including rising costs, virus pressure, and water shortages. They are, after all, dependent on Mother Nature. The tomatoes are sold to wholesalers and retailers, and we're pleased to see strong demand, which brings many happy faces."
Verdi Import receives the tomatoes in various types of packaging, with custom-made options available. "All our suppliers have the necessary certifications, which have become a standard requirement nowadays," Mohamed adds. Alongside the Moroccan tomato supply, the pepper season from Morocco has also begun. "In addition to green, yellow, and red bell peppers, we also carry pointed peppers. We offer these either loose or in packs of 10x500 grams or 10x2 pieces, depending on customer demand. The Dutch pepper season is winding down, and with reduced supply from Spain, we anticipate strong demand in the coming period."
"In addition to our range of Moroccan vegetables, we have also started receiving the first tangerines. The market is strong, with good prices. We had a successful season in South Africa, and we hope to continue this with Moroccan produce. Last year, for instance, we sold a lot of Nadorcott mandarins from Morocco. We expect to have them back in stock by Christmas, continuing until the end of April," Mohamed concludes.
For more information:
Mohamed Arab
Verdi Import
Koopliedenweg 38
2991 LN Barendrecht
Tel: +31 180 69 64 76
[email protected]
www.verdiimport.nl