How to Open a Citrus Sorting & Export Packing House in Morocco

To open a Citrus Sorting & Export Packing House in Morocco, you must legally register your business, secure approvals from ONSSA, set up a compliant facility with modern sorting equipment, and obtain export certifications before shipping to international markets.

Morocco is one of the world’s top citrus producers and exporters, specializing in mandarins, clementines, and oranges. With citrus exports projected to reach 597,000 tons in the 2024–2025 season, and production volumes of 2.5–3 million tons annually, the industry presents a golden opportunity for entrepreneurs aiming to build a packing house that meets international standards.

Step 1: Conduct Market Research & Build a Business Plan

• Assess Global Demand: Morocco exports citrus primarily to the EU, UK, Russia, U.S., and African markets. Competitors include Spain and South Africa.
• Feasibility Study:
  • Facility setup costs start around $500,000 for a small packhouse.
  • Morocco offers subsidies such as MAD 1,000 per tonne export bonuses for EU, UK, and African markets.
• Business Plan Essentials:
  • Financing (banks like Attijariwafa or programs under the Green Morocco Plan).
  • Target supply zones: Berkane (clementines) and Souss/Agadir (oranges).

Tip: Check export.gov Morocco for updated export market resources.

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Step 2: Register Your Business Legally

1. Choose a Business Structure – Most citrus ventures use a SARL (LLC) for flexibility and limited liability.
2. Obtain a Negative Certificate from OMPIC to secure your business name (MAD 200–500).
3. Draft Articles of Association, notarize, and deposit the minimum capital of MAD 10,000.
4. Open a Bank Account and obtain a capital deposit certificate.
5. Register with CRI (Regional Investment Center) for:
   • ICE (company ID),
   • Tax ID,
   • CNSS (social security).
6. ONSSA Registration – mandatory for food safety oversight.
7. Zoning Check – the facility must be in an industrial/agricultural zone.

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Step 3: Licenses, Approvals & Certifications

• ONSSA Approval: For hygiene, pest control, and food safety compliance.
• Phytosanitary Certificates: Required for each shipment (valid 14 days).
• Global Standards: Consider GlobalGAP, HACCP, ISO 22000 to access EU/US markets.
• Labor & Environmental Permits: CNSS registration + environmental compliance for new facilities.

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Step 4: Select & Set Up Your Facility

• Location: Near orchards (Berkane, Agadir) and close to ports (Casablanca, Tangier).
• Facility Size: 5,000–60,000 m², with zones for washing, grading, sorting, packing, cold storage.
• Equipment: Invest in modern graders and automated sorters (e.g., TOMRA, MAF RODA) for size, color, and defect detection.
• Cold Storage: Essential to preserve fruit quality for exports.

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Step 5: Hire & Train Staff

• Workforce Size: 50–200 workers depending on output.
• Training: Focus on hygiene, machine operation, and traceability systems.
• Labor Costs: Average MAD 3,000–5,000/month per worker.

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Step 6: Export Procedures & Marketing

1. Documentation Required:
   • Commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, bill of lading, phytosanitary certificate.
2. Customs: Use PORTNET for online declarations.
3. Logistics: Leverage Morocco’s free trade agreements with the EU, U.S., and Africa.
4. Marketing Strategy:
   • Join ASMEX (Moroccan Exporters Association).
   • Attend trade fairs (Fruit Logistica, Berlin).
   • Target buyers online and through direct contracts with wholesalers.

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FAQs: How to Open a Citrus Sorting & Export Packing House in Morocco

1. Do I need a special export license?

No general license is required, but you must register with ONSSA and have an ICE number for customs.

2. What certifications do international buyers demand?

GlobalGAP, HACCP, and ISO 22000 are highly recommended for EU/U.S. markets.

3. Can foreigners open a packing house in Morocco?

Yes, Morocco welcomes foreign investment. A foreigner can set up a SARL (LLC) and own 100% of the company.

4. How long does ONSSA approval take?

Typically 2–3 months, depending on facility compliance.

5. What incentives exist?

Government subsidies, tax advantages, and export bonuses (MAD 1,000/tonne to EU/UK/Africa).

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Conclusion

Opening a Citrus Sorting & Export Packing House in Morocco is a profitable venture if you plan strategically, comply with regulations, and invest in quality infrastructure. Morocco’s strong production base, free trade agreements, and subsidies make it one of the most competitive citrus exporters globally.