Spain says Moroccan produce meets EU safety standards amid farmer concerns

Spain’s government has reaffirmed that fruits and vegetables imported from Morocco comply with the European Union’s strict health, safety, and quality standards, responding to complaints from Spanish farmers who say they face “unfair competition” from cheaper imports.

In a written reply to a parliamentary question from Senator Agustín Almodóbar Barceló of the Popular Party, the government said that all goods circulating within the EU, whether produced domestically or imported, must meet the same stringent regulations.

“Any product imported from Morocco must comply with EU food safety rules,” the statement said. “There is no reason to speak of unfair competition on this issue.”

Spanish authorities emphasized that every shipment of agricultural and food products from outside the EU undergoes border inspections, carried out by customs officials in each member state. These checks focus on health, plant, and safety standards before the products are cleared for entry.

The inspections, adjusted according to risk levels, are designed to ensure that non-compliant goods never reach European consumers.

The government also highlighted a wider EU monitoring system that coordinates control measures between national authorities and the European Commission to ensure consistent enforcement of food safety standards across the bloc.

Citing Eurostat data, Madrid noted that Spain imported 2.44 million tons of fruits and vegetables from non-EU countries in 2024, worth about €4.1 billion. Imports from Morocco alone exceeded 742,000 tons, an annual increase of more than 4%.

Vegetables accounted for nearly 295,000 tons, while fruits made up about 176,000 tons. Peppers, green beans, and tomatoes were among the most imported Moroccan products.

The Spanish government said it cannot impose restrictions on Moroccan imports because both countries are bound by EU-Morocco partnership agreements and international trade rules.

“Trade agreements bring Spain substantial benefits that go beyond the commercial dimension,” the statement said, adding that such partnerships are essential for Spain’s economic and strategic interests.

Madrid also dismissed allegations of unfair competition, noting that the same EU trade and safety framework that governs Morocco’s exports has also helped Spain consolidate its position as one of Europe’s leading producers and exporters of fruits and vegetables.