Egypt and Morocco strengthen position in Japan’s frozen strawberry market

In recent years, Egypt and Morocco have made significant strides in the frozen strawberry market in Japan. According to EastFruit, Morocco’s presence on the Japanese market has notably increased, while five years ago the country was only 5th largest supplier. Meanwhile, Egypt consistently holds the second position among exporters of frozen strawberries to Japan.

In the past year, Egypt exported 5,400 tons of frozen strawberries to Japan, while Morocco shipped 4,400 tons. Together, these two North African countries accounted for 35% of the total strawberry imports to Japan, trailing only slightly behind China. China sent 10,700 tons of frozen garden strawberries to the Japanese market in 2023.

During the first half of the year, Egypt and Morocco further strengthened their positions, reaching a combined 44% share of frozen strawberry imports to Japan. However, the situation may level out in the future, as Chinese exports typically peak in the second half of the calendar year, while Egypt and Morocco primarily supply their products from January to June.

Asia continues to be an enticing sales market for Egyptian and Moroccan frozen berries. Beyond Japan, both countries are actively expanding their presence in China, which was previously a major exporter of frozen strawberries in the region but is now confidently transitioning to becoming a net importer.

In another Asian region – Southeast Asia – Egypt and Morocco have yet to establish their presence. However, this direction is witnessing significant growth in the trade of frozen fruits and berries. Notably, the prospects for Egyptian and Moroccan exports to Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, and other Southeast Asian countries were thoroughly discussed during the “Navigating the Southeast Asian Fruit & Vegetable Market: Opportunities for Egypt and Morocco” training. The video recording of the event is available here.