Transformations in French Agricultural Trade in Africa

The French agricultural trade landscape in Africa is undergoing significant transformations, with sub-Saharan African markets emerging as primary destinations for exports. In this context, Morocco is solidifying its position as a major strategic partner for France in North Africa, particularly in the agricultural sector.

According to data published by the platform ChemAnalyst, based on a report from the French Ministry of Agriculture and FranceAgriMer, sub-Saharan Africa has become the largest African market for French agricultural products in 2025, surpassing North Africa for only the second time since 2009.

Decline in North Africa, Growth in Sub-Saharan Africa

French agricultural exports to sub-Saharan Africa reached approximately €2.2 billion in 2025, marking a 2% year-on-year increase. In contrast, exports destined for North Africa declined by 13%, settling at €1.9 billion.

This decline is primarily attributed to a sharp drop in Algerian imports, notably the complete halt of soft wheat deliveries in 2025, following average volumes of over 2 million tons per year from 2020 to 2024. Exports of powdered milk also saw a significant decrease.

Morocco: The Main Partner in North Africa

In this context, Morocco has reaffirmed its role as the leading North African market for French agricultural products. This trend is supported by strong domestic demand for agricultural imports, particularly cereals, due to declining local production amidst successive droughts.

French wheat exports to Morocco increased by 27% in 2025, while barley exports also saw substantial growth, nearly doubling compared to the previous year.

As a result, Morocco’s imports of French agricultural products reached about €1.2 billion, an 8% rise compared to 2024, confirming the Kingdom’s status as the top agricultural market for France in North Africa.

A Reconfiguration of Agricultural Trade Flows

Despite the expansion of French presence in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, and Southern Africa, Morocco remains one of the most stable and dynamic markets for French agricultural products.

The report ultimately highlights a gradual reconfiguration of French agricultural trade in Africa, marked by the ascent of sub-Saharan Africa while maintaining Morocco as a central pillar in exchanges in North Africa.