Morocco is now the biggest buyer of soft wheat from the European Union, after imports rose sharply this season.
New figures from the European Commission show the country bought more than 2.63 million tonnes by mid-March. That is up from 1.93 million tonnes at the same time last year. The total puts Morocco ahead of other major buyers like Egypt and Saudi Arabia.
Across the EU, wheat exports have also increased. Shipments reached 16.77 million tonnes since July, up 8% compared with a year earlier. Romania and France are the main suppliers.
The rise is mainly due to lower local harvests in Morocco after several years of drought. Poor rainfall during planting seasons has reduced output, forcing the country to rely more on imports to meet demand.
To keep supplies steady and bread prices stable, the government has removed import taxes on wheat until 30 April 2026. It also steps in with subsidies if prices go above 270 dirhams per quintal. Imports are partly managed by the National Inter-professional Office for Cereals and Legumes (ONICL).
Morocco is also buying from a wider range of suppliers. France remains a key source, but countries like Romania and Bulgaria are selling more wheat at lower prices.
Better port facilities have helped handle the increase. Upgrades in Casablanca and Jorf Lasfar allow faster unloading of large ships, making it easier and quicker for traders to bring in grain.
Shipping costs and delays have also made nearby European suppliers more attractive than more distant countries.
Egypt has imported more than 1.5 million tonnes of EU wheat so far this season, while Saudi Arabia has taken over 1.19 million tonnes. In contrast, demand from Nigeria and Algeria has fallen.
Prices are another factor. Romanian wheat is trading at about $243 per tonne, while French wheat is around €193 to €200 per tonne. France is pushing exports as it deals with large stockpiles, while Romania is gaining ground by offering lower prices.
Experts say Morocco may import between 5 and 5.5 million tonnes of wheat by May. That means about half of its expected needs has already been secured.
