Free of charge

Dates: price turnaround expected

March 31, 2020 at 12:07 PM , Der AUDITOR
Play report as audio

TEHRAN. The outbreak of the coronavirus has slashed all hopes in Iran that an upsurge in demand would drive up prices in the run up to Ramadan. Although there is an uptick in demand for nutrients, especially for dates, the prices have so far failed to rise. Traders are, nevertheless, optimistic that the situation may change.

Oversupply keeps prices low

Although dates are considered valuable antioxidants that give the immune system a boost, domestic demand has so far failed to drive up prices. This is largely due to the large production. According to the National Association of Iranian Dates production ranged as high as 1.2 million metric tonnes in 2019/2020, which is a 20% rise over last year. At the same time, prices range 20% lower than last year. Normally around 25%-30% would be exported, but freight transports are a big problem and exports have declined sharply. Normally, there would be a sharp increase in export demand with Ramadan approaching, but the shipping problems related to the spread of the coronavirus have prompted buyers to stop ordering for now.

In the days following the outbreak of the coronavirus in Iran flights were stopped and restrictions on traffic were introduced at the land borders. Although the situation has nominally improved, as negotiations were fruitful in opening up some borders for the traffic, albeit with restrictions, there will most certainly be a long-term impact on date exports. Traders are calling on exporters and economic adviser to redouble their efforts and use all heir capacities. In addition, it is essential that the virus is managed and controlled as well as possible to limit the long-term effects of the virus on the date market.

Prices expected to rise

Mazafati dates have mainly traded in a firm range over the last two weeks. The increase in domestic demand is well balanced by the large supplies and decline in export demand. Traders are, however, convinced that the situation will change over the next few weeks as new solutions will be found to resolve transport issues and Ramadan is approaching.

Mazafati dates, Iran

Grade

EUR/kg

Grade A

1.03

Grade B

0.88

Premium Grade

1.11

FOB Iran

 

View more information

price chart, Mazafati dates, dried, grade A, Iran
price chart, Mazafati dates, dried, grade B, Iran
more price charts

View related articles

Go to the News Overview
Dried Fruit
Mar 3, 2026
AYDIN. Ahead of the new season, more and more information events are being held in the growing regions of Aydin to ensure that growers are well prepared for the new crop. Meanwhile, the dried fig market remains relatively weak.
Dried Fruit
Mar 3, 2026
MALATYA. In Malatya, there is an increased focus on sustainable and science-based optimisation of apricot cultivation in order to overcome challenges such as frost, price volatility and quality fluctuations. The market remains calm and exports continue to decline.
Dried Fruit
Mar 3, 2026
MANISA. Cool temperatures until the end of March are bringing relief to Turkish grape growers. Various institutions are assessing the impact of flooding caused by heavy rainfall in the growing regions.
Dried Fruit
Feb 24, 2026
AYDIN. Rainfall benefits the growing regions. As long as growers do not lower their prices, exporters must stick to the current offers.