Morocco to host berry conference

Berry professionals are set to gather in Agadir on 5 December for the Morocco Berry Conference, with topics including disease, crop protection and innovation

The first Morocco Berry Conference, organised by Green Smile, is set to take place in Agadir on 5 December, bringing around 450 berry professionals together to discuss improvements in crop production techniques, consumption trends and innovation. Although the conference will be exploring the four main berries – blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and strawberries – a particular focus will be applied to be the blueberry category, which remains one of the most difficult crops from a technical standpoint. The first session will provide an overview of the international berry market, tracing consumption trends in Europe, the US and Asia, and identifying where Morocco stands globally. The goal of the second session is to increase understanding of advanced crop production techniques, with discussions on the advantages of substrate-grown raspberries and highbush blueberries. As for blackberries, the session will look at the biggest challenge for growers, in fruit-handling and post-harvest management. The third session will investigate the issue of disease, with a focus on Drosophila suzukii and the blueberry gall midge, and the possibility of following a “Zero Pesticide Residue” approach for Moroccan strawberries. The final session will be devoted to innovation, looking at blueberry breeding in Morocco, the potential for organic production and logistical advancements. Delegates will also be introduced to Plant Empowerment, a new approach to growing crops in greenhouses, also known as Next Generation Growing. 
“The Morocco Berry Conference 2019 will allow you to meet high-level producers and partners that will take your business to the next level,” announced Green Smile.

[Author：Nitika]