Free of charge

Dates: Exports from Iran rise by 20%

August 28, 2019 at 11:10 AM , Der AUDITOR
Play report as audio

TEHRAN. With yields ranging at 7.23 metric tonnes per hectare, Iran has the potential of producing the highest quality dates. With last year’s production ranging at 1.59 million metric tonnes the country currently ranks second after Egypt in the global market. While exports rose by as much as 20% last, the current season has started with setbacks.

Quality and supplies prompt rise in exports

Global date production ranges at 8.166 million metric tonnes, of which Iran on average supplies 1.23 million metric tonnes. Since the quality in Iran is reckoned to be very good, there is enormous potential for the export market. At 7 to 10 kg, the per capita consumption in Iran may range higher than the global average of just over one kg but still much lower than in other producing countries such as Saudi Arabia with 34 kg. In 2018/2019, Iran exported as much as 306.290 metric tonnes of dates, which is an increase of 20% over the year before. This increase is attributed to more attractive prices, an increase in supplies and an improvement in quality. Exports rose, even though the average export prices climbed by 10%. Profits also increased by 35%.

Export of dates, Iran

Season (April-March)

Exports (mt)

Export value (USD)

Average price (USD)

2017/2018

253,516

250,462,000

0.98

2018/2019

306,290

338,348,000

1.1

Trade sources


Setbacks in the current season

The rise in the average export prices also prompted traders to intensify exports. This, however, also drove up the prices in the domestic market. The government in turn issued a temporary ban on exports. Consequently, the export volume declined by 27% to 19,300 metric tonnes and the export value decreased by as much as 42% in the first month after the current season. Average export prices now range than last year at USD 0.88 per kg.

Prices, Mazafati Dates, Iran

Grade

EUR/kg

Grade A

1.28

Grade B

1.19

Premium Grade

1.42

FOB

 

View more information

price charts
price information 

View related articles

Go to the News Overview
Dried Fruit
Sep 16, 2025
MANISA. Turkish sultana farmers are expected to complete the drying period shortly. Buyers and traders are showing cautious interest in purchasing. Exports are significantly below last year's level.
Dried Fruit
Sep 16, 2025
MALATYA. Although there is virtually no produce available this season and most companies remain closed, some buyers have made their first purchases of dried apricots in Malatya. However, exports have slumped dramatically.
Dried Fruit
Sep 16, 2025
AYDIN. Turkish dried fruit exporters discussed preparations for the start of the export season. Initial prices for the new crop are circulating on the market. Offers can vary greatly depending on quality and growing region.
Nuts
Sep 9, 2025
MANILA. Desiccated coconuts are trading relatively firm in the Phillippines. Container prices are finally regaining some strength.