FRESH FRUITS, VEGETABLES MIDDLE EAST
DECEMBER 2014
The designations employed and the presentation of material in this document do not imply the
expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the International Trade Centre concerning the
legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation
of its frontiers or boundaries.
This document has not formally been edited by the International Trade Centre.
FRESH FRUITS & VEGETABLES MIDDLE EAST
DECEMBER 2014
FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST
Contents
1.
Introduction ........................................................................................................................................... 1
2.
Market Dynamics .................................................................................................................................. 1
3.
4.
2.1.
United Arab Emirates - Dubai ..................................................................................................... 1
2.2.
Oman .......................................................................................................................................... 1
2.3.
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ............................................................................................................ 1
Media .................................................................................................................................................... 2
3.1.
Overview ..................................................................................................................................... 2
3.2.
United Arab Emirates.................................................................................................................. 2
3.3.
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ............................................................................................................ 5
3.4.
Oman .......................................................................................................................................... 7
Price Information ................................................................................................................................... 9
4.1.
Mango fruit juice and pulps ......................................................................................................... 9
4.2.
United Arab Emirates.................................................................................................................. 9
4.3.
Oman ........................................................................................................................................ 12
4.4.
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia .......................................................................................................... 13
5.
Exchange Rates .................................................................................................................................. 15
6.
References .......................................................................................................................................... 16
ii
1. Introduction
This is the second report in what will become a series of monthly investigations into various markets in the
Middle East/GCC. The scope of the markets will be expanded over the course of 2015.
The initial focus is on fresh and dried mango as well as chilies in the GCC area. Additionally there will be
monthly comment on the global market for mango puree and juices. This comment should be viewed in
conjunction with the ITC Market Insider platform:
http://www.intracen.org/itc/market-insider/fruit-juices-pulps-and-purees/
Being the second of these reports, we would particularly ask for feedback. As the reports are filed, a
clearer picture will emerge of market trends and the ability to forecast market sizes and prices will improve.
2. Market Dynamics
2.1. United Arab Emirates - Dubai
The current market is full of fresh vegetables, many coming from Oman, which means prices are not high
and even luxury items in demand by Western ex-pats for the Christmas celebrations, were reasonable.
With the cooler months, most products are available and the usual abundance from Salalah keeps the
store shelves well stocked and the supply continuous from across the border.
Most prolific are eggplants, beetroot, onions, cauliflowers, carrots, cabbages, broccoli, snap pears, bitter
melons, okra, acorn squash, turnips, pakoda, kohlrabi, baby marrows and paprika. The supply of green
beans has now picked up and they are back in plentiful supply.
Chilies: Along with the other vegetables, there are now a lot of very fresh chilies coming in from Oman at
cheaper prices, making them the most popular for UAE customers. Wholesalers are able to travel direct to
Oman themselves overnight and deliver the fresh produce direct to the market that morning – therefore
picked and sold in less than 24 hours. Other countries chilies cannot compete for freshness and therefore
the demand is for the Omani product.
Mango: The supply of Alphonso mangoes from India has picked up this month with a constant supply still
continuing from Indonesia, which was virtually the sole supplier last month. Indonesian mango remains
cheap, as well as readily available, so this remains the fruit of choice for Asia expats. However, the
Australian R2E2 mango is in high demand from Western and Arab customers, but is in short supply.
Dried Mango: Dried Mango comes only from Thailand at present and is readily available in the wholesale
market.
2.2. Oman
Fresh, locally grown, chilies ae prolific and in high demand. There are also a few chilies coming from Iran
and India, but the freshness of the local product makes it more popular.
Alphonso mango is coming from India and Indonesia this month, as for United Arab Emirates (UAE);
however the demand is lower with a cheaper Pakistani product available. Very few shops carry mango and
most of those sold are direct from the market to the end-user. No dried mango was available in the Omani
market this month.
2.3. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
The price of tomatoes is now cheaper in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and not as expensive as last month,
due to an influx of Egyptian product now available.
The usual supply of fruit & vegetables from Syria and Jordan at this time of year is virtually non-existent,
with the exception of Kaka, leaving local wholesalers with the task of finding new suppliers and therefore
currently struggling to fill some gaps in the market.
Citrus, traditionally coming from these countries, is being replaced by South Africa, Egypt and Turkey for
lemons, with very good prices and oranges only coming from Egypt. The Spanish product, found readily
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FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST
last month, is now in short supply.
Unlike its neighbours in UAE and Oman, KSA has very few mangoes in the market, although more than
last month and what is there is predominantly from Kenya and is very expensive.
Green, chili and red peppers are still expensive, although overall prices of vegetables are better and
cheaper than last month.
3. Media
3.1. Overview
With Russian bans on EU produce taking hold, an increasing number of global growers are looking toward
the lucrative markets and market hubs in the Middle East. Maintaining quality continues to be a key issue
and while one grower identified fast customs turnaround for produce as an advantage, others are looking
toward technological solutions to improve the shelf life of produce. Food security of the region as a whole
remains a key focus of authorities. Health benefits of fresh fruit and vegetables continue to be vigorously
promoted throughout the media citing a scientific basis for their claims of beating disease and improving
general health and longevity. Organic produce is also gaining an increasing profile.
3.2. United Arab Emirates
15 Dec 2014 Pakistani citrus fruit growers expect larger orders of citrus fruits from UAE, Saudi Arabia and
other GCC countries, in addition to some European countries, because of improved processing, grading
and packaging of citrus fruits. After the successful launching of mango farm tracking earlier this year,
Pakistan is now replicating this initiative with citrus fruits. Final official figures for last season’s exports are
not available, but exporters claim they surpassed the target of 300,000 tons. This season’s target remains
the same, and leading exporters claim that actual shipments will reach 400,000 tons. (See reference 1)
UAE is hosting some advanced technological solutions to growing of fresh fruit and vegetables. Panasonic
has built three electronically controlled greenhouses. For about €37,000 per greenhouse, Panasonic
promises 8 harvests instead of the usual 5 in a region that has suffered from very hot summers over the
last decade or so.
Toshiba has just launched an experimental farm in Yokosuka where chard, spinach and mizuna are grown
on polystyrene sheets on top of fertilised water. Pesticides are not needed in these enclosed, clean
spaces.
Toshiba hope to produce €2 million of vegetables per year in their ‘farm of the future’ and to export the
concept abroad, especially to zones known to be difficult for farming. Sharp, the inventor of the LCD, is
testing their strawberry site in Dubai, where LED lights diffuse a purple light that encourages
photosynthesis. A bigger factory could be opened by spring 2016 in the UAE to supply the regional market
that appreciates the particularly sweet Japanese strawberries. (See reference 2)
The Russian Federation has started with the export of cucumbers to the United Arab Emirates. Air
transport for cucumbers costs 40 roubles (60 eurocents) per kilo, transport by sea costs 30 roubles (45
eurocents) per kilo, while cucumbers are purchased in the Emirates for 300 roubles (4.53 Euro) per kilo.
‘In the Emirates, this Vegetable is being sold at 300 roubles per kilogram. It produces a good margin,’ the
General Director of Churilovo, Sergey Chigintsev said. Talks with the UAE were difficult because the
country’s fruit and vegetable market is held by Indian suppliers. At first the Arab counterparts did not want
to purchase Russian cucumbers, but they changed their mind after tasting them. The advantages of
working with the UAE is the country's tax-free system, under which customs clearance is fast
"The plane comes, and after 1.5 hours you can unload your products." (See reference 3)
The country’s largest genuine farmers’ market opened in Dubai at the end of November and reflects a
growing awareness of and interest in, organic products. A Sharjah farmer, who was the first to be certified
as organic, says the staple produce are tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet potatoes, herbs, aubergine, marrows
and spinach. The first seeds are planted in October and the growing season lasts until about May. Only a
handful of vegetables survive the summer months. Last year there were 30 organic farms in the country.
The larger farm is 4.65 hectares in Al Dhaid, employing 50 staff, and the smaller is 2.5 hectares in Al
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FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST
Zubair. They yield more than 100 kilograms of produce per day during the busiest periods. There are 35
greenhouses on the site, most of them protecting cucumbers.
In the past month, outdoor markets have been popping up around the country. The Ripe Food and Craft
Market now runs in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah. There are also a growing number of organic
supermarkets, including the Organic Foods and Cafe in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which imports much of its
stock, Blue Planet Green People, The Farm House and Greenheart Organic Farms Shop. Some of the
major supermarkets including Spinneys, LuLu and Carrefour also stock a small variety of products, and it
appears that from here onwards the availability of organic product is only set to grow and grow. (See
reference 4)
The Norwegian government recently made known its intention that by 2020, 15% of food production and
consumption will be organic. In France, consumption of organic fruit and vegetables has increased by
almost 10% and for the United Arab Emirates the market for packaged organic food is expected to have
grown by 30% in 2018. (See reference 5)
The embargo imposed by the Russian Federation in late July has caused Moldovan farmers to seek new
markets. Attempts have been made to enter less traditional markets, such as the Middle East countries. At
least one grower has already managed to export a shipment of 40 tons of apples to Egypt and Dubai
following participation in Dubai’s recent international exhibition World of perishables. The biggest challenge
is to invest in the technical means necessary to find a good balance between the cost of packaging and
prices, to ensure the goods arrive in good condition. (See reference 6)
Spain currently has issues with orange overproduction, with a harvest this year expected to reach 3.397
million tons. Of this, almost 50% is exported. 80% of that fruit is shipped to destinations within the
European Union (EU). Outside the European Union, where 20% of all orange exports are shipped
(323,600 tons), the main destinations are The Russian Federation, Switzerland, the United States of
America, Norway, Canada, Algeria, U.A.E. and Saudi Arabia. (See reference 7)
Polish growers also look with hope to the United Arab Emirates, and more specifically Dubai, as it would
allow Polish apple exports to be shipped to even more countries. ‘From this place, our apples can then be
easily shipped to North Africa. It can be a great destination from a logistics standpoint,’ stated Jolanta
Kazimierska, president of the Fruit Union. Polish apples have been looking for new markets in recent
months after Vladimir Putin closed the Russian Federation border. Poland, the world's largest exporter,
shipped 75% of its entire production in The Russian Federation, almost 900 thousand tons. (See
reference 8)
A total of 6,733 visitors from 94 nations came to the IPM DUBAI and World of Perishables (WOP) DUBAI
2014 that took place in parallel - 26% up on the previous year. The growth is primarily be attributed to the
general economic upswing in the region and, in particular, to increased tourism. WOP DUBAI: More
Exhibition Area and Enlarged Country Participations
In 2014, WOP DUBAI was bigger and more international than ever. 170 exhibitors from 24 countries
introduced their innovations from the fields of fresh goods, goods security, technical equipment, transport,
trading and service. Australia, Morocco and Poland were officially there for the first time and Belgium,
China and Portugal extended their participation. (See reference 9)
FOOD freshly, the international fresh produce preservation specialist, has launched a new subsidiary in
Dubai to bring its innovative 3-PPP Concept© for food hygiene to the UAE and the Middle East market.
Supported by a dedicated sales executive and local warehouse facilities, FOOD freshly Dubai will market
its freshness retainer formulations and Fruit Cleaner Antiox®, along with other related dosing and
measuring equipment services. The company exhibited at the recent WOP Dubai trade show and has
confirmed the official signing of the biggest order in its history from a UAE based company. (See reference
10)
Statistics from the Gulf Organization for Industrial Consulting (GOIC) revealed that the number of GCC
food industry firms increased from 1,602 in 2009 to 1,857 in 2013, a cumulative growth rate of 3.8%.
Investments for the same period of time jumped from US$12.4 billion to $18.1 billion, a cumulative growth
rate of 10% for five years. In addition, the work force increased from about 149,000 workers in 2009 to
approximately 196,000 in 2013, a cumulative growth rate of 7%.
Food industries are becoming increasingly important to GCC countries in light of Gulf food security
objectives. Processing and preserving of fruits and vegetables statistics include processing and preserving
vegetables, preserving olives in salt or oil, preserving fruits and processing potatoes. GOIC figures
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FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST
revealed that this sector’s share in 2013 was around 11% of the total number of firms, 4.6% of the total
investments and 6.2% of the work force.
The number of firms working in this area increased from 174 in 2009 to 204 in 2013, a cumulative growth
rate of 4.1%. Investments for the same period of time dropped from $ 871 million to US$828 million, a
cumulative decline rate of -1.3%. The number of workers increased from 11,568 in 2009 to 12,191 in 2013,
a cumulative growth rate of 1.3%. (See reference 11)
Nutritional habits can decrease cancer risk. The benefits of eating cruciferous vegetables like broccoli,
Brussels sprouts, cabbage and kale, as well as tomatoes, carrots, berries, cherries and grapes and the
science behind the claims. (See reference 12)
Poland, one of the world’s biggest exporters of apples, has tapped the UAE as a new, strategic market for
its most popular agricultural export.
Since The Russian Federation’s ban on agricultural products from European Union countries this year,
Poland has been looking to Asia and the Middle East to fill a gap in the global market. The country exports
a total of around 3.7 million tons of apples, with the EU and North Africa as its main markets.
The UAE is an important platform for Polish produce promotion in the Asian, Middle East and West African
countries. Apart from apples, Poland also wants to start exporting other agricultural products to the UAE.
There are good prospects for Polish vegetables and possibly berries. (See reference 13)
The recently opened Ripe Food and Craft market held every Saturday at The Collection on St Regis
Saadiyat Island Resort Abu Dhabi, has elicited an enthusiastic response from residents with hundreds
flocking to buy organic fruit and vegetables. Customers said there was a lot of cheap, seasonal produce.
For instance a fresh avocado costs Dh10, Dh5 less than in supermarkets. A bag of cucumber and a bunch
of rocket leaves cost Dh10 each. A small bag of red radish is priced at Dh15, and a bag of zucchini, Dh10.
By 1pm all veggies had been sold out. Ripe Markets in Dubai and Sharjah were established in 2012 and
work with a number of local organic farms. (See reference 14)
Ramada Hotel and Suites Ajman is turning food waste into compost to grow greens. The food waste, the
bulk of its waste profile, is turned into compost, and used at an “urban farm” in the parking lot where
seasonal vegetables, served in its restaurant are grown. (See reference 15)
The Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA) have tied up with the Abu Dhabi Farmers’ Services
Centre (ADFSC) in a joint campaign to encourage the hospitality sector to use local produce in its food and
beverage offerings. The ‘Go Local’ campaign was rolled out at a recent meeting in Al Ain, which is also its
agricultural heartland, when the centre briefed F&B professionals from 14 hotels throughout the emirate on
the wide range of local produce available under ADFSC’s ‘Local Harvest’ brand. ADFSC provides technical
and operational support services to hundreds of Abu Dhabi farmers to help them grow and market their
produce. (See reference 16)
Sundrop Farms has announced the launch of its presence in the Middle East region following a successful
funding round with global investment firm KKR for the international development of Sundrop’s arid climate
agribusiness.
Sundrop intends to replicate its landmark project in the South Australian desert near Port Augusta, in the
Middle East and North America.
The regional headquarters will be based in the Dubai International Financial Centre. The company grows
crops in state-of-the-art glasshouses using a unique proprietary technology developed to address the
water and food security issues typical to arid regions.
Using solar power to create the heat, electricity and desalinated water needed to feed and power growing
operations eliminates much of the need for groundwater and fossil fuels to produce its vegetables, which
include pesticide-free, carbon-neutral tomatoes, capsicums and cucumbers. (See reference 17)
Al Maya Group is keen to increase its imports of Jordanian vegetables and other products. The value of
Jordan's fruit and vegetable exports during the first three quarters of this year went up by more than 20%
to JD410 million (US$577 million) from JD340 million (US$476) during the same period of last year.
The Group’s vegetable imports from Jordan include tomatoes, cauliflower, baby marrow, sweet pepper and
chilies and it expects increasing demand for Jordanian vegetables in the UAE. ‘Imports could be increased
multifold.’
Tomatoes rank number one with more than 35% of total vegetable exports value of Jordan.
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Trade data shows that Jordan is currently a major supplier of fruits and vegetables to the Gulf Arab market,
particularly Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Al Maya Group has more than 40 supermarkets in the GCC countries in addition to other businesses and
expanded its reach in Oman and Abu Dhabi by opening new outlets this year. (See reference 18)
India plans to introduce a system to allow international consumers of Indian mangoes to trace back the fruit
to its farm of origin through the Internet as part of its efforts to persuade the European Union to lift ban on
Indian mangoes.
‘The success of Grapenet has encouraged us to replicate the system in mangoes,’ said Sudhanshu,
deputy general manager of Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority. The
EU had imposed a temporary ban on Alphonso mangoes and four vegetables from India from May 1,
stating that it had found fruit fly infestation in the fruit. This impacted exports to the United Kingdom of
Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the second largest export market for Indian mangoes after the UAE.
Following the ban, Maharashtra, the largest exporter of mangoes in the country, started using HortiSAP, an
IT-based pest surveillance system extensively for mangoes. (See reference 19)
3.3. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Honduras exports mangoes to 36 countries and is also seeking to penetrate Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and
Hong Kong in the medium term. The 2014-2015 melon harvest in Choluteca and Valle was due to begin
mid-December.
The goal for this season is to generate 70 million dollars in exports, almost 11% more than the US$63.1
million made in the 2013-2014 season. In the past two years, employers in this category have exceeded
export targets. According to the Secretary of Agriculture, Jacobo Paz, one of the novelties in this crop year
is the incursion of the Honduran melon in new markets, mainly Japan and Taiwan. (See reference 26)
Fruit and vegetable prices at the central vegetable market in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia have been registering
strong fluctuations, increasing and falling by up to 20%.
Abu Zinada attributed this to several factors, especially the decision to ban foreign workers from working in
the central market, which prompted overseas suppliers to reduce their shipments, but also the arrival of the
winter, which results in lower fruit and vegetable production volumes.
The effects of snow and cold temperatures are particularly clear with tomatoes. One day they can cost 15
riyals, and the next 50 riyals. High demand in light of the lack of supply has an impact on prices. (See
reference 27)
Spanish broccoli growers say they anticipate establishing new markets in including Dubai and Saudi
Arabia soon after tests over summer yielded good results. While high temperatures and lack of water
resources in October and November within Spain's most important production area caused some anxiety,
sufficient volumes will be harvested. The autumn season was saved through geographical diversification.
Prices weren’t good, particularly during October, when there were shortages at the start of the season but
now remain “stable at reasonable levels”. Better weather and quality in November lifted quality and sales.
Consumption has now dropped a little and thus prices are also lower, ranging between 0.30 and 0.40 Euro
per kilo at origin, and 0.75 and 0.85 Euro per kilo at the warehouse. These prices barely serve to cover
production costs, as broccoli costs about 30 or 35 cents to produce. However it’s expected demand will
grow in the weeks before Christmas and colder temperatures will limit production.
According to the latest data supplied by Murcia's Council of Agriculture and Water, the broccoli production
in 2014 is estimated to reach 216,179 tons; up 20% compared to last year and 23% higher than the
average of the past five years. Globally, Spain is the third largest producer behind China and India. (See
reference 28)
In a surprise move, the Riyadh municipality launched a public health campaign on various streets in Batha
and penalized 186 establishments for flouting market regulations according to a source in the municipality.
Municipal teams raided 11 premises in these areas that were being used for the storage of fruits and
vegetables in unhygienic conditions. The field teams arrested 48 vendors selling accessories and other
goods including 46,500 cartons of fruits and vegetables, which the municipality donated to charities. (See
reference 29)
The Ministry of Labor intends to nationalize the retail sector, especially baqalas (corner shops), in various
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FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST
parts of the Kingdom by setting up cooperative consumer societies, a ministry official said. The move
comes following a Cabinet decision that has taken into consideration the monopoly of expatriates on some
commercial activities.
The Ministries of Labor and Interior continue to nationalize commercial activities, making good returns, the
official said, adding that cooperative societies would be able to fight monopolies and fraud.
‘They can also work as marketing outlets for national products, such as fruits and vegetables supplied by
agricultural cooperative societies,” the official said. Establishing cooperative consumer societies is a task
recently undertaken by a number of government bodies such as the Ministries of Commerce and Industry,
Social Affairs, Municipal and Rural Affairs, Finance, Labor and other government bodies. (See reference
30)
The Al-Ahsa municipality seized and destroyed 1,707 rotten food items in November this year as part of
the municipality’s program to maintain public health. Khalid Bushel, spokesman for the municipality, said
920 kg of cooked food, vegetables and dairy products unfit for human consumption in the cities of Hofuf
and Mubaraz were confiscated and destroyed by the municipality. (See reference 31)
Several illegal expats trying to sell vegetables or others produce are gathering once again at Al-Sitteen
bridge in Jeddah, despite efforts made by authorities and a recent inspection campaign. Most of the
expatriates are from Sudan, Yemen, Pakistan, Bangladesh and some African countries. The Passport
Department carried out numerous raids in the area in coordination with a number of government agencies
and arrested dozens of people. (32)
The two main challenges facing the food industry are the talented manpower and the availability of fruit
sources, says the top executive of a major food company. Al-Rabie Saudi Food Co. produces a wide range
of fruit juices and long life milk products. Current production capacity is 450 million litres of juice and milk
and an announcement about a second factory is imminent, said CEO Monther Trad Alharthi. The
company’s main market is Saudi. Export markets are the GCC countries, Yemen, Iraq, Jordan, Palestine
and Egypt. Alharthi said Saudi Arabia does not have enough fruit to make industry self-sufficient and so
depends on imports. All raw materials come from abroad mango from India, apple from Austria, orange
concentrate from Brazil, etc. (See reference 33)
JEDDAH — Contract farming and increased trade ties between Greece and Saudi Arabia were the focus
of discussions with Saudi government ministers during a recent visit by Greece’s vice minister for
development and competitiveness. Under contract farming, growers agree to produce certain quantities of
a product for a particular customer at a contracted price. (See reference 34)
Commercialisation of hydroponic farming is a viable answer to Mena countries suffering from a lack of
arable land and climate that are unsuitable for the mass production of food, said an industry leader. While
agricultural productivity for the region as a whole increased markedly during the 1990s due to
modernization efforts with water management, the region still faces a food deficit of 50-90 million tons by
2020.
Hydroponics offers some potential to reduce food security risks in the region and almost all the Mena
countries are now exploring the potential of soil-free agriculture and vertical farming in order to be selfsufficient in food production by 2023. Saudi Arabia imports 95 per cent of their fresh fruits and vegetables
for which the nation is paying massive premiums. (See reference 35)
The process of organising small Indian farmers into collectives such as producer companies or cooperatives is attracting the interest of foreign buyers and being promoted as a way to improve relations
with larger retailers. In the middle of this year, the EU banned import of four Indian vegetables – including
eggplants (brinjals and gourds) along with mangoes on the grounds they contained harmful organisms.
Even Saudi Arabia recently banned the import of Indian green on the grounds of high pesticide residues.
However, large retail chains in Europe and West Asia are keen to source green vegetables from Indian
farmer producer organisations (FPOs) here, provided they are offered guarantee on traceability issues. So
far, about 350 FPOs have been set up across the country and another 500 are in the process of being
formed. FPOs are also seen as a potential vehicle to foster technology penetration, improve productivity
and enable improved access to inputs such as seeds and fertilisers and services such as financial and
insurance among the farming communities. Apart from enabling the famers to leverage the market for
better prices, FPOs also provide a window for channelling the funds under various schemes.
(See reference 36)
Saudi Arabia and the UAE are some of the top mango-importing countries in the world. Now, they can
have mangoes delivered right to their door through a service called Mango Jazan. It’s a delivery service
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FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST
that delivers nothing but mangoes.
Most of the Middle East’s mangoes come from India or Pakistan, but a small region in Saudi Arabia called
Jazan has become well known for producing some of the juiciest mangoes around. It used to be pretty
tough to get your hands on a box of Jazan mangoes—they’re primarily traded locally—but the region is
now making them available to a wider consumer base through its delivery system. Since the site launched
in 2012, it has acquired 20,000 users. (See reference 37)
Saudis and expats are eagerly waiting for the low oil prices to reflect on the living costs in the Kingdom.
The recent price drop will plummet general prices in the Kingdom by more than 15%, according to experts
and analysts.
Several vital sectors in the Kingdom will be affected by the low oil prices, which are expected to lead to
shrinkage of the production costs of commodities. ‘Many local businessmen will be forced to respond by
cutting down their services and commodities’ prices. ‘The same thing will happen with food products, they
will be reduced by more than 10% as result of the low production and transportation cost. However, the low
oil prices need a time to be reflected in the local market,’ said an economist.
This means a great relief for consumers, as Saudi inflation edged up in 2013, averaging 3.6% in the first 10
months, mainly driven by higher food and housing costs. See reference (See reference 38)
A difficult season has seen South Australia’s faba bean crop down by as much as 50 per cent. However,
high prices of US$430 plus per tonne are likely to be retained. Egypt is the main market but growers
anticipate potential beyond that, particularly in Saudi Arabia and Indonesia.
The majority of Australian faba beans are delivered direct to packers rather than to the bulk handling
facilities. Of the 300 000 tons exported last year from Australia, only about 50 000 tons was exported in
bulk while the containerised trade accounted for around 250 000 tonFFs.
The faba bean harvest in France in September was followed by the United Kingdom in October and finally
the Australian crop. Egypt consistently purchases around a third of their requirement from Australia due to
the preferred colour and size of Australian faba beans, which command Production estimates for faba
beans show a 5-year average planting area of over 160 000 ha and an average yield of 1.7 t/ha and up to
3.0 t/ha in more favourable areas and under irrigation. (See reference 39)
A report on how a healthy, plant-based diet can significantly improve blood sugar levels and even
potentially leave patients free of the disease. (40)
3.4. Oman
Sakkara, originally a Jordanian group founded two generations ago, has expanded over the years, first
stepping out to the Omani market, setting up storage and distribution facilities there, and then to Egypt in
2002. The company’s export business is currently based in Egypt; it imports fruit from Oman and other
parts of the world and then distributes it. In 2012 a huge, brand new packing house with cold storage
facilities and high end packing lines with Dutch technology was built.
In addition to shipping 58 to 60,000 tons of oranges per season, rendering it one of Egypt’s largest
distributors, Sakkara also works with grapes, pomegranates, potatoes or onions, and after introducing
carrots three years ago it has also become one of the country’s biggest players. It has distribution in
Kuwait, Oman (by far the largest), Jordan, and Saudi Arabia and started this year in The Russian
Federation. As a group, Sakkara is also one of the largest importers of bananas into Egypt. Aziz says “we
also do apples, pears or plums from countries like South Africa, Chile, the United States or New Zealand.
Additionally, oranges for juicing are shipped to Europe, to destinations like the Netherlands, the United
Kingdom, Germany or Sweden.”
In Asia, it already does good volumes in India, Bangladesh and Malaysia, and we do really well in Dubai,
with 400 containers of oranges per season.’ (See reference 20)
Interest in Islamic Finance has increased in the last few years and has the potential to develop the capital
markets of Sri Lanka and assist in the development of infrastructure along with encouraging foreign
investment in the island state. Even under the normal tax regime agriculture enjoys special tax incentives.
Projects entailing cultivation of vegetables and fruits for export market using modern technology could be
an area of investment for the Middle Eastern market. Sri Lanka also has bilateral double tax avoidance
agreements (DTA) with over 40 countries. Out of the Gulf countries, Sri Lanka has entered into DTA with
Kuwait, Oman and the UAE, and a limited DTA covering air transport with Saudi Arabia. (See reference
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FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST
21)
Since the 1970s Oman has lost more than one million lime trees to a disease with no known cure, but now
a scientist from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries has found a way to grow disease-free trees to
rehabilitate the Sultanate's lime production.
A plant pathology researcher has found a way to overcome the disease by growing tissue cultures from
disease-free blossoms and grafting them onto new disease resistant rootstocks.
His project, which started in 2010 and is funded by the Agriculture and Fisheries Development Fund, aims
to produce enough disease-free trees to replenish the lime crops in Oman. (See reference 22)
A plant-based diet can significantly improve blood sugar levels and even potentially leave patients free of
diabetes. An analysis of previous studies showed a vegetarian diet had significant benefits in the treatment
of Type 2 diabetes and improved insulin sensitivity. Researchers found eating a vegetable-based diet
reduced levels of a key blood protein. (23)
Muscat: Omani farmers are facing a variety of challenges including failing irrigation systems, competition
for water, and crop disease. Farmers struggle to find the funds or expertise to treat disease. Earlier this
year swarms of locusts destroyed crops of thousands of farms across the country. Although farmers can
get aid from the government for pesticides, overuse means some new growth has been killed off and there
are calls for the government to provide more training to educate farmers. Many vegetables and fruits that
survive water shortage, contamination and ravages of parasites, decay either during storage or
transportation to the markets. Farmers cannot afford storage refrigeration that can keep their crops fresh or
vehicle cooling system during distribution over long distance, especially during the hot seasons. This is
why many consumers prefer to buy imported farm produce. (See reference 24)
Muscat: Efforts to in Lithuania aimed at promoting bilateral trade and investment with Lithuania have
resulted in Straikas, the maker of Magnum fruit and vegetable juices, entering an export agreement with an
Omani importer. The deal is expected to generate about 100,000 euros in revenue for the Lithuanian
company in 2015 alone, with the first batch is due to be ready for delivery before the end of this year.
The company believes the partnership will help it enter the broader Gulf market.
Magnum juices are already exported to numerous countries worldwide but Oman is the first Arabic export
destination for the brand. (See reference 25)
8
FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST
4. Price Information
4.1. Mango fruit juice and pulps
The market for the Alphonso variety is firm and while there are still some stocks available, ‘Caveat Emptor’
applies more than ever. Some of the available stocks are not the ‘real’ Alphonso variety. There is very little
availability of the ‘real’ Western Alphonso. It is reported as more or less sold out.
Due to a very poor harvest for Tommy Atkins in Latin America, Mexico is now sold out and Peru is
reporting a 20% drop in its harvest which will start next month (January 2015). This has helped the price of
Indian Totapuri to firm. India has processed lower quantities of concentrate this year, which should
contribute to a firmer price going into 2015.
Origins
Concentration
Price
Transportation
India
Alphonso, aseptic puree, 17 brix
US$1550-1650/mt
CFR Rotterdam
India
Totapuri, aseptic concentrate, 28 brix
US$1250-1350/mt
CFR Rotterdam
Mexico
Tommy Atkins, aseptic concentrate, 28 brix
US$1200-1300/mt
FCA Holland
4.2. United Arab Emirates
Item
Origin
Low price
(dhs)
High price
(dhs)
Variety
Size
Pack
Chillies
Chillies green fat
Jordan
19.5
19.5
Chillies long green
Oman
46
46
Green
10 kg
1 kg
1 box
Chillies green
India
18
18
Green
4 kg
1 box
Chillies green
Thiland
6.95
6.95
Green
1 kg
Chillies red
Thiland
7.95
7.95
Red
1 kg
Chillies sweet long green
Tunishia
15.95
15.95
Green
1 kg
Chillies green
Jordan
8.25
8.25
Green
1 kg
Chillies green
Morocco
14.5
17.5
Green
1 kg
Chillies long red
Morocco
14.5
14.5
Red
1 kg
Chillies red
Egypt
17.5
17.5
Red
1 kg
Chillies green
UAE
60
60
Light green
5 kg
1 box
Mango alphonso
Indonesia
25
25
8 pcs
1 box
Mango alphonso
India
10
10
12 pcs
Mango
Kenya
19
19
9 pcs
1 box
Mango r2e2
Australia
22
22
1 kg
1 box
Mango tomi
Brazil
9.95
9.95
1 kg
Mango round
Kenya
8.5
8.5
1 kg
Mango kent
Egypt
24
24
10 pcs
220
220
Mango
Dried mango
Mango (dried)
Thailand
9
4 kg
1 box
FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST
Item
Origin
Low price
(dhs)
High price
(dhs)
Variety
Size
Pack
Apples
Apple green
USA
110
110
Green
138 pcs
Ctn
Apple kanzi
Holland
140
140
Kanzi
15 kg
Ctn
Apple pink rose
New zealand
13
13
Pink rose
1 kg
Apple royal gala
France
85
85
Royal gala
115 pcs
Apple green
Italy
140
140
Green
16 kg
Ctn
Apple red
USA
1132
132
Red
100 pcs
Ctn
Apple fuji fancy
China
Fuji fancy
100 pcs
Ctn
Apple jazz
New zealand
Jazz
1 kg
Apple
70
70
13.5
13.5
Iran
11
11
Avocado
Kenya
24
24
Acorn squash
Awla/amla/gooseberries
(not a.)
Arvi
Oman
9
9
India
12
12
1 kg
China
28
28
10 kg
Ctn
Banana
Philippine
35
35
14 kg
1 box
Broccoli
Oman
10
10
Green
1 kg
Bitter melon
Oman
35
35
Green
10 kg
Ctn
Beans
Iran
35
35
Green
8 kg
1 box
Baby marrow
Oman
16
16
Green
18 kg
Ctn
Beet root
Oman
2
2
Red
3 kg
Ctn
Citnass
South africa
38
38
6 kg
Chikoo
India
14
14
1 box
Cantaloup
Oman
40
40
8 pcs
Ctn
Coconut
India
25
25
25 pcs
Ctn
Cauliflower
Oman
15
15
10 kg
Ctn
Cabbage
Oman
7
7
Green
10 kg
Bag
Cucumber
Saudi Arabia
50
50
Green
12 kg
Ctn
Celery
China
25
25
4 kg
1 box
Capsicum red
Holland
19.5
19.5
1 kg
Capsicum orange
Holland
16.5
16.5
1 kg
Capsicum yealow
Holland
18.5
18.5
1 kg
Capsicum green
Oman
5
5
1 kg
Capsicum mix
Holand
7
7
1 kg
Capsicum yealow
Egypt
9
9
1 kg
Capsicum red
Egypt
80
80
8 kg
Carrot
China
13
13
10 kg
Drumstick
India
50
50
Green
8 kg
1 box
Eggplant
Oman
10
10
Black
18 kg
Ctn
Eggplant jumbo
Oman
10
10
Black
18 kg
Ctn
Fresh leaves
UAE
6
6
4 kg
1 beg
Ginger (fresh)
China
23
23
8 kg
Grapefruit
India
38
38
3.5 kg
10
40 pcs
1 box
Green
12 pcs
Box
Green
10 kg
Ctn
Ctn
1 box
FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST
Item
Origin
Low price
(dhs)
High price
(dhs)
Variety
Size
Pack
Garlic
Oman
25
25
6 kg
Ctn
Green bean
Oman
35
35
10 kg
Ctn
Gawar
Oman
8
8
1 kg
Guava
Egypt
10
10
Iceberg lettuce
China
20
20
Kiwi
Italy
25
25
14 pcs
Green
6 pcs
Ctn
30 pcs
1 box
Kholrabi
Oman
20
20
6 kg
Lemon
Vietnam
35
35
10 kg
Box
Long pakoda
Oman
30
30
Red
10 kg
Box
Lettuce
Iran
35
35
Green
35 kg
Ctn
Mandarin
China
37
37
1 box
Mashrums
China
55
55
3 kg
Nectarines
Jordan
28
28
3 kg
Orange
Lebanon
32
32
36 pcs
Ctn
Onion
Pakistan
33
33
35 kg
Ctn
Okra
Oman
55
55
10 kg
Ctn
Pomegranate
India
20
20
12 pcs
Ctn
Pineapple
India
20
20
6 pcs
Ctn
Potato
Egypt
20
20
8 kg
Ctn
Pear
China
8
8
1 kg
1 box
Pumpkin
Oman
34
34
10 kg
1 box
Papaya
India
28
28
6 pcs
1 box
Parval
Bangladesh
25
25
4 kg
1 box
Potato
Bangladesh
45
45
18 kg
1 box
Rambutan
Vietnam
24
24
1 box
Strawberry
Egypt
40
40
8 box
Snap pea
Oman
7
7
10 kg
Sandra
China
27
27
1 box
Sweet potatoes
Lebanon
12
12
Suran
India
12
12
Ctn
turnip
Oman
10
10
4 kg
1 pcs
(medium)
10 kg
tangerine
Pakistan
30
30
6 kg
1 tray
Tomato
Jordan
10
10
6 kg
Ctn
Taro
India
26
26
5 kg
Ctn
Water melon
Oman
2
2
1 kg
Zucchini
Iran
20
20
6 kg
11
Red
Red
Ctn
FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST
4.3. Oman
Item
Origin
Low price
(omani riyals)
High price
(omani riyals)
Variety
Size
Pack
Chillies
Chillies
Oman
4
4
Green
10 kg
Chillies red
Oman
0.6
0.6
Red
1 kg
1 box
Chillies
India
3
3
Green
5 kg
Chillies (long)
Iran
2
2
Light
green
3 kg
Mango totapri
Pakistan
4.8
4.8
Yealow
48 pcs
Box
Mango freightie
Pakistan
10 r.
10
Green
12 kg
Box
Mango alphonso
India
1.2
1.2
Green
1 kg
Mango alphonso
Indonesia
4
4
Green
12 psc
Box
Dried mango
Not available
X
X
X
X
X
Apple
Iran
2
2
Yellow
42 pcs
Ctn
Apple
Usa
14.8
14.8
Green
115
pcs
Apple fuji fancy
China
11
11
Fuji fancy
112
pcs
Avocado
Torkey
3.6
3.6
Green
12 pcs
Ctn
Acorn squash
Oman
1
1
Green
8 kg
Ctn
Arvi
China
5.6
5.6
12 kg
Ctn
10 kg
1 box
Mango
Apple
Banana
Philippine
5
5
Broccoli
Oman
0.4
0.4
Green
1 kg
Bitter melon
Oman
4.5
4.5
Green
10 kg
Beans
Oman
0.4
0.4
Green
1 kg
Baby marrow
Oman
0.4
0.4
Green
1 kg
Ctn
Beet root
Oman
0.2
0.2
Red
1 kg
Ctn
Cantaloup
Oman
0.6
0.6
1 pcs
Ctn
Coconut
India
6
6
22 kg
Ctn
Cauliflower
Oman
1
1
10 kg
Ctn
Carrot
China
0.3
0.3
1 kg
1 bag
Cucumber
Oman
4
4
18 kg
Ctn
Capsicum (peppers)
India
1.6
1.6
Eggplant
Oman
1.5
1.6
Black
5 kg
Ctn
Eggplant jumbo
Oman
1.5
1.5
Black
5 kg
Ctn
Eggplant
Oman
0.4
0.4
Green
1 kg
Green
Ctn
1 kg
Grapefruit
India
3.2
3.2
4 kg
1 box
Garlic
Oman
2
2
6 kg
Ctn
Gawar
Oman
3
3
6 kg
Ctn
Green bean
Oman
3
3
Guava
Egypt
1.8
1.8
14 pcs
1 tray
Iceberg lettuce
China
2.5
2.5
Green
6 pcs
12
Green
8 kg
Ctn
FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST
Item
Origin
Low price
(omani riyals)
High price
(omani riyals)
Variety
Size
Pack
Kiwi
Italy
5.6
5.6
6 kg
1 box
Lemon
Lebanon
6
6
10 kg
Box
Long pakoda
Oman
2
2
Green
8 kg
Box
Lettuce
Ksa
0.3
0.3
Green
1 kg
Orange
Lebanon
5
5
40 pcs
Ctn
Onion
Pakistan
4
4
30 kg
Ctn
Okra
Oman
4
4
10 kg
Ctn
Paprika
Egypt
5
5
10 kg
Pomegranate
India
3
3
Potato
Pakistan
2
Pear
China
Pumpkin
Red
2 kg
Ctn
2
7 kg
Ctn
4.8
4.8
4 kg
1 box
Oman
2
2
4 kg
1 box
Papaya
Oman
0.4
0.6
1 pcs
Potato
Pakistan
1.6
2
8 kg
Strawberry
Egypt
7.2
7.2
6 kg
Sweet potatoes
India
2.8
2.8
10 kg
Snap pea
Oman
0.4
0.4
1 kg
Turnip
Oman
0.2
0.2
1 kg
Tangerine
Pakistan
3.2
3.2
4 kg
1 tray
Tomato
Oman
3
3
10 kg
Ctn
Taro
India
4.2
4.2
5 kg
Ctn
Water melon
Oman
0.2
0.2
1 kg
Red
1 box
4.4. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Item
Origin
Low
price (sr)
High price
(sr)
Variety
Size
Pack
Chillies
Short green chillies
Pakistan
45
45
Green
5 kg
Box
Long green chillies
KSA
30
30
Green
8kg
bag
Long green chillies
KSA
4
5
Green
1 kg
bag
Mango
Kaneya
40
45
16 pieces
box
Mango (frozen)
Egypt
8
10
1kg
pack
Apple green
France
80
85
Green
18 kg
Ctn
Apple red
Chile
95
100
Red
17 kg
Ctn
Apple fuji
Italy
100
100
Red
17 kg
Ctn
Apricot
Turkey
70
70
5kg
Box
Avocado
Kenya
35
40
20 pcs
Box
Banana
Yemeni
10
10
2 kg
Bag
Banana
Ecuador
60
60
14 kg
Box
Mango
Apple
13
Green- small
FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST
Item
Origin
Low
price (sr)
High price
(sr)
Banana
Usa
47
50
Beans
KSA
30
35
Beetroot
KSA
14
Carrot
KSA
Carrot
Carrot
Variety
Size
Pack
17 kg
Box
10 kg
box
15
10 kg
bag
10
10
12 kg
Bag
Turkey
10
10
8 kg
Bag
China
10
10
3 kg
Bag
Cantaloup
KSA
15
20
Ctn
Cauliflower
KSA
25
25
Cauliflower
KSA
25
25
Medium
3-4 pcs
8 small
pieces
6 piece
Cabbage
KSA
12
15
Red
6 pcs
Bag
Cabbage
KSA
10
12
Green
6 pcs
Bag
Cucumber
KSA
10
10
Green
6 kg
Ctn
Cucumber
KSA
30
30
Green
20 kg
Ctn
Chili pepper
Pakistan
5
5
Green
0.500 g
Bag
Capsicum (peppers)
KSA
5
5
Green
1 kg
Bag
Celery
KSA
10
10
Medium
3 pieces
Ctn
Eggplant
KSA
15
15
Black
10 kg
Ctn
Grapes
Lebanon
25
30
Red
4 kg
Basket
Grapes
Lebanon
10
10
Red
1.5 kg
Basket
Grapefruit
Turkey
60
60
15 kg
Ctn
Garlic
China
35
35
0.900 g
Ctn
Garlic
China
25
27
7 kg
Bag
Ginger
China
55
55
9 kg
Ctn
Green bean
Ksa
5
5
0.750 g
Box
Green
10 packs
Ctn
Ctn
Guava
Egypt
10
10
1.5 kg
Box
Kaka
Spain
35
35
4 kg
Box
Kaka
Syria
15
18
1.5 kg
Box
Kiwi
Itali
20
22
23 pieces
Box
Lemon
Egypt
20
20
8 kg
Bag
Lemon
South africa
35
40
10kg
Ctn
Lemon
Turkey
45
45
15 kg
Ctn
Lettuce
KSA
25
25
16 pieces
Ctn
Lettuce
Egypt
30
30
Lettuce
KSA
5
5
Mandarin
Morocco
25
Mandarin
Pakistan
Mandarin
Big
Small
9 pieces
Ctn
1 kg
Bag
25
5 kg
Ctn
40
40
10 kg
Ctn
Turkey
8
10
2.5 kg
Box
Orange
Egypt
20
20
7 kg
Ctn
Onion
Egypt
15
15
10 kg
Bag
Onion
Egypt
5
5
4kg
Bag
Onion
KSA
12
12
White
4 kg
Bag
Okra
KSA
110
110
Small
16 kg
Ctn
Okra
KSA
40
40
Big
12 kg
Ctn
14
Green
FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST
Item
Origin
Low
price (sr)
High price
(sr)
Variety
Size
Pack
Peach
Pomegranate
Egypt
40
40
Red
10 kg
Ctn
Pomegranate
Egypt
18
18
Red
4.5 kg
Ctn
Pineapple
Philippine
30
30
Big
8 pcs
Ctn
Pineapple
India
55
55
Medium
6 pcs
Ctn
Potato
KSA
10
10
5 kg
Bag
Potato
KSA
5
5
1.5 kg
Bag
Pear
Turkey
35
38
25 pieces
box
Pumpkin
Usa
10
10
8 pieces
Bag
Red beet root
KSA
25
25
7 kg
Ctn
Spinach
KSA
3
4
1 kg
Pack
Pumpkin
KSA
25
25
Big
3 pieces
Ctn
Strawberry
Egypt
18
18
8 packs
0250 g
Ctn
Sweet pepper
Egypt
10
10
Yellow
6 pieces
Box
Sweet pepper
Egypt
10
10
Red
6 pieces
Box
Sweet potatoes
Egypt
8
8
1,5 kg
Ctn
Tomato
Egypt
20
20
8 kg
Basket
Tomato
Egypt
10
10
5 kg
Ctn
Taro
Egypt
12
12
3 kg
Bag
Zucchini
KSA
20
20
10 kg
Ctn
Small
Big
5. Exchange Rates
We will track the relevant exchange rates for the GCC and expand as additional markets are included.
US$
US$
AED/DHS
SAR
OMR
n/a
3.67
3.75
0.384
Source: XE Currency 29 December 2014. http://www.xe.com
15
FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST
6. References
1.
Pakistan eyeing citrus fruit export 15 December 2014 http://www.dawn.com/news/1150833/eyingexport-of-citrus-fruit
2.
Japanese launch futuristic farms
12 December 2014
http://www.freshplaza.com/article/132562/Japanese-launch-futuristic-farms
3.
Russia to start exporting to UAE 5 December 2014 http://www.freshplaza.com/article/132244/Russiato-start-exporting-to-UAE
4.
A growing scene: Exploring organic farms in the UAE
4 December 2014
http://www.thenational.ae/arts-lifestyle/food/a-growing-scene-exploring-organic-farms-in-the-uae
5.
Organic sector still growing 1 December 2014
http://www.freshplaza.com/article/131780/Netherlands-Organic-sector-still-growing
6.
Moldovans search for new markets 5 December 2014
http://www.freshplaza.com/article/131836/Moldovans-search-for-new-markets
7.
Spain is the Mediterranean orange producer most dependent on exports 28 November 2014
http://www.freshplaza.com/article/131506/Spain-is-the-Mediterranean-orange-producer-mostdependent-on-exports
8.
Polish apples arrive in Portugal 12 December 2014 http://www.freshplaza.com/article/132518/Polishapples-arrive-in-Portugal
9.
Profiting from economic upswing in Persian Gulf 2 December 2014
http://www.freshplaza.com/article/131980/Profiting-from-economic-upswing-in-Persian-Gulf
10. FOOD freshly opens new Dubai subsidiary 2 December 2014
http://www.freshplaza.com/article/131984/FOOD-freshly-opens-new-Dubai-subsidiary
11. GCC food industry investments reach US$18bn 4 December 2014
http://www.arabnews.com/news/669446
12. Know your breast cancer-blocking diet. 3 December 2014 http://www.arabnews.com/foodhealth/news/668931
13. UAE is new apple of Poland’s eye. 17 December 2014
http://gulfnews.com/business/retail/uae-is-new-apple-of-poland-s-eye-1.1427910
14. New organic market on Saadiyat is a big hit 26 November 2014
http://gulfnews.com/about-gulf-news/al-nisr-portfolio/xpress/news/new-organic-market-on-saadiyat-isa-big-hit-1.1418270
15. Going green: A recycling success story. 14 December 2014
http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/environment/going-green-a-recycling-success-story-1.1423709
16. Abu Dhabi eateries urged to use local produce. 11 December 2014
http://www.khaleejtimes.com/kt-article-display1.asp?section=nationgeneral&xfile=data/nationgeneral/2014/december/nationgeneral_december86.x
ml
17. Sundrop Farms sets up ME headquarters in Dubai 15 December 2014
http://www.emirates247.com/business/sundrop-farms-sets-up-me-headquarters-in-dubai-2014-12-151.573459
16
FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST
18. Al maya group keen to increase imports from Jordan 9 December 2014
http://www.zawya.com/story/Al_maya_group_keen_to_increase_imports_from_JordanZAWYA20141209133332/
19. International consumers may soon be able to track farm origin of Indian mangoes 2 December 2014
http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2014-12-02/news/56648832_1_mangonet-auditcommittee-mango-exporters
20. Sakkara on shipping oranges to China:First quality then volumes. 5 December 2014
http://www.freshplaza.com/print.asp?id=132035
21. Sri Lanka receives US$1.42 billion as foreign direct investment in 2013 7 December 2014
http://www.arabnews.com/economy/news/671241
22. Omani scientist battles ‘Witches’ Broom’ 15 December 2014
http://www.timesofoman.com/News/44336/Article-Omani-scientist-battles%E2%80%98Witches%E2%80%99-Broom%E2%80%99
23. Plant-based diet helps beat diabetes 14 December 2014
http://www.timesofoman.com/News/44221/Article-Plant-based-diet-helps-beat-diabetes
24. Sunday Beat: Oman farmers struggle against nature’s odds 20 December 2014
http://www.timesofoman.com/News/44556/Article-Sunday-Beat-Oman-farmers-struggle-againstnature%E2%80%99s-odds
25. Lithuanian firm inks pact to supply juices in Oman market 6 December 2014
http://www.timesofoman.com/News/43769/Article-Lithuanian-firm-inks-pact-to-supply-juices-in-Omanmarket
26. Honduras melon export estimate +11%. 16 December 2014
http://www.freshplaza.com/print.asp?id=132704 (ELHERALDO.HN)
27. Saudi Arabia: Fluctuating prices at Jeddah Market December 2014
http://www.freshplaza.com/article/132810/Saudi-Arabia-Fluctuating-prices-at-Jeddah-Market
(aleqt.com)
28. Spain: "Broccoli campaign will be saved" 10 December 2014
http://www.freshplaza.com/article/132437/Spain-Broccoli-campaign-will-be-saved
29. 186 firms penalized for flouting civic rules 14 December 2014
http://www.arabnews.com/news/674151
30. Ministry takes steps to Saudize baqalas 1 December 2014
http://www.arabnews.com/saudi-arabia/news/668026
31. 1,707 rotten food items destroyed 12 December 2014
http://www.arabnews.com/saudi-arabia/news/673241
32. Illegal expats return to Al-Sitteen bridge 7 December 2014
http://www.arabnews.com/news/670926
33. Commitment to quality ‘vital to succeed in Saudi market’ December 2014
http://www.arabnews.com/economy/news/671251
34. Saudi Arabia and Greece discuss the possibilities:Contract farming in focus
28 November 2014
http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index.cfm?method=home.regcon&contentid=20141129225867
35. Hydroponics ‘answer to Mena food 10 December 2014
http://www.tradearabia.com/news/MISC_271245.htm
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FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST
36. Vegetable farmers’ collectives spark foreign buyers’ interest 27 November 2014
http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/agri-biz/vegetable-farmers-collectivesspark-foreign-buyers-interest/article6640377.ece
37. It’s Like Uber, But For Mangoes 19 December 2014 http://magazine.good.is/articles/uber-mangodelivery-saudi-arabia
38. People expect low oil prices will bring relief 21 December 2014
http://menafn.com/1094049534/Saudi-People-expect-low-oil-prices-will-bring-relief
39. Faba bean prices support growers in a tough year 18 December 2014
http://www.theislanderonline.com.au/story/2773444/faba-bean-prices-support-growers-in-a-toughyear/?cs=12
40. Plant-based diet helps beat diabetes 14 December
http://www.times1.timesofoman.com/News/44221/Article-Plant-based-diet-helps-beat-diabetes
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