The export markets for Saudi Arabia’s dates have seen remarkable growth, especially in China, where exports soared by 121 per cent in 2023
The National Centre for Palms and Dates (NCPD) has reported a remarkable 14 per cent increase in the value of Saudi Arabia’s date exports in 2023, reaching SR1.462 billion, up from SR1.280 billion in the previous year. This demonstrates a significant expansion in the global footprint of Saudi dates, with the number of importing countries rising to 119.
Since 2016, the total value of exports, including date products, has surged by 152.5 per cent, from SR579 million to SR1.462 billion in 2023, showing a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.3 per cent.
Dr. Mohammed Alnuwairan, Chief Executive of NCPD, attributes this success to the combined efforts of the leadership, date producers, exporters, and public agencies. These collaborative initiatives have included participation in local and international exhibitions, organizing business missions, streamlining export procedures, and engaging with the private sector under a cohesive strategy to boost date exports.
The export markets for Saudi Arabia’s dates have seen remarkable growth, especially in China, where exports soared by 121 per cent in 2023, compared to 2022. France also witnessed a notable increase of 16 per cent, while Singapore and Korea experienced substantial growth, with imports increasing by 86 per cent and 24 per cent, respectively.
Underpinning these successes are significant improvements in the quality and production of processed date products, enhanced by both local and international marketing efforts.
