Spanish garlic producers fear losing market share in Morocco and the UK

Spanish garlic producers and exporters are concerned about new trade measures introduced by Morocco and the United Kingdom that could complicate access to two key export markets. Spain’s National Association of Garlic Producers and Marketers (ANPCA) has urged the Spanish government and the European Commission to take immediate action to protect the industry. The main risks stem from Morocco’s new import licensing requirements and the UK’s plans to temporarily suspend import tariffs on garlic.

Morocco has introduced an import licensing system for fresh and chilled garlic for a period of 18 months. Although the new rules do not constitute an outright import ban, Spanish exporters are concerned about administrative delays, uncertainty and potential trade restrictions. ANPCA is seeking clarification on the criteria for granting licenses, processing times and the actual impact of the new procedures on export operations. According to international trade statistics, Morocco imported approximately 11.28 thsd tons of Spanish garlic in 2025, compared with 15.22 thsd tons in 2024.

Meanwhile, the United Kingdom has announced a temporary suspension of import tariffs on several products, including garlic, from November 26, 2026, until the end of 2028. The currently published garlic tariff is 8% plus £100 per 100 kg of product. Spanish producers fear that tariff liberalization could intensify competition from suppliers in third countries, particularly China. However, it has not yet been confirmed whether the tariff suspension will apply to shipments outside the established tariff quotas.

These markets remain highly important for Spain’s garlic industry. In 2024, Spain exported 14.89 thsd tons of fresh and chilled garlic to the United Kingdom and 15.22 thsd tons to Morocco. Together, these two destinations accounted for more than 30.1 thsd tons, or 21.26% of Spain’s total garlic exports of 141.6 thsd tons. The UK represented 10.52% of total exports, while Morocco accounted for 10.74%.

ANPCA has asked the European Commission to examine whether Morocco’s licensing system complies with existing trade agreements and to ensure transparency in its implementation. The association is also calling for an assessment of the impact of UK tariff liberalization on European suppliers, monitoring of trade flows and consideration of legally available trade defense measures if necessary. Industry representatives emphasize that Morocco and the United Kingdom are strategically important export destinations, meaning changes in trade conditions could significantly affect the competitiveness of Spanish garlic.

Tags: Spain, Morocco, garlic, UK