Morocco Sets Record For Pepper Exports To UK

Morocco is strengthening its position in the UK fresh produce market as its sweet pepper exports continue to climb sharply, reaching a record volume in 2025, according to new trade data.  

Global Trade Tracker data analysed by EastFruit shows that UK imports of Moroccan sweet peppers doubled last year to 8,100 tonnes – more than twice the volume recorded in 2024.

Shipments to the UK have expanded rapidly in recent years, making the UK one of the fastest-growing destinations.

Since 2020, exports have reportedly risen 35-fold, growing by 104% annually on average, underlining Morocco’s growing role in supplying British retailers and wholesalers.

Image: EastFruit

In 2025, the UK market accounted for 3.6% of Morocco’s sweet pepper exports, up from 1.7% in the previous year. 

That share has come with strong growth momentum – Morocco became the fourth-largest sweet pepper supplier to the UK last year, overtaking France, and almost matching the volume shipped by Germany.

While France, Germany, and Spain experienced lower shipments in 2025, Morocco took advantage of stable logistics and reduced prices to expand its presence in the UK.

Exports to the UK totalled a record 1,700 tonnes in December 2025 alone, with Morocco accounting for 10% of all sweet pepper imports into the UK.

Image: EastFruit

Winter Window Of Opportunity

The Netherlands and Spain remain the major sweet peppers suppliers to the UK, accounting for 83% of export volume in 2025.

Morocco, meanwhile, enjoys a window of opportunity between November and April when winter demand for sweet peppers is high.

The European Union (EU) is the principal destination for Moroccan sweet peppers, largely Spain, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. 

Outside of this core buying group, the UK has emerged as one of the most notable growth markets for Morocco.

Moroccan growers appear well placed to benefit from Britain’s year-round demand for consistent quality and supply, particularly when European production is under pressure.

The rise also reflects Morocco’s expanding greenhouse sector and its ability to supply produce beyond the main seasonal peaks. 

As exports to the UK grow, Moroccan peppers are becoming a more visible part of the British fresh produce trade, especially for importers looking to diversify supply.

Morocco’s broader export performance in the UK with tomatoes, blueberries, and raspberries suggests the upward trend could continue for sweet peppers. 

Source: EastFruit