open access

Submitted: 2026-04-21
Natural Resources and Forestry
Published: 2026-05-31

Moroccan spice and herbs market: trade, production practices, and global competitiveness

Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Hassan II Institute of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, Rabat, Morocco
Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Hassan II Institute of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, Rabat, Morocco
Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Hassan II Institute of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, Rabat, Morocco
Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Hassan II Institute of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, Rabat, Morocco
Innovation and Entrepreneurship Lab, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Benguerir, Morocco
Department of biology, Faculty of Science, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco

Abstract

The world spices and herbs market has experienced consistent growth over the last decades, where Asia occupied 81% of the production and the European Union (EU) held the distinction of being the world's largest importer and consumer of these commodities. In Morocco, spice and herbs market is characterized by a rich history and cultural traditions, providing income for rural populations and securing a place in the international market, by ranking 12th in the world for the export of aromatic and medicinal plants. This review gives a special attention to the status of the Moroccan spice and herbs production and market, exploring the evolution of its imports and exports and highlighting the main methods of valorization used in the country such as drying and distillation of essential oils. However, this market faces many challenges that retard its growth and development. Accordingly, a SWOT analysis was conducted to point out the strength and weakness of this market as well as emphasizing the country’s potential for improvement. This review suggests that focusing on sustainable practices, added value, and better quality products could promote this sector and generate a significant economic benefits.

Keywords: Spices, herbs, Morocco, production, market, SWOT analysis