Who Are the Largest Importers and Buyers of Dates?
Who are the largest importers and buyers of dates in the world? In this article, Tari Trading aims to introduce you to the biggest countries that import and purchase dates. We will also look at the quantity of dates these countries imported in 2023.
If you’re ready, let’s start the article.
Who Are the Largest Importers and Buyers of Dates?
Here, we have listed the countries based on the quantity and value of their date imports.
Top 10 Date Importing Countries
1. India
- Quantity: 490,589 tons
- Value: $266,671
India leads the global import of dates in both quantity and value. The high demand for dates stems from cultural traditions and their use in religious ceremonies, especially during festivals like Ramadan. Moreover, dates are widely consumed as a natural sweetener and energy booster, making them a staple in many Indian households.
2. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Quantity: 250,524 tons
- Value: $215,849
The UAE imports significant amounts of dates to meet the needs of its local population and to supply re-export markets. Dates are an essential part of Emirati cuisine and culture, making the UAE a major consumer. Additionally, the UAE imports premium-quality dates for its high-end market and for redistribution to other regions.
3. Morocco
- Quantity: 132,465 tons
- Value: $241,229
Morocco prioritizes quality over quantity, as reflected in the high import value compared to its moderate import volume. Dates play a vital role in Moroccan culture and cuisine, especially during Ramadan, when they are traditionally eaten to break the fast. Morocco’s focus on high-quality dates significantly increases the value of its imports.
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4. Niger
- Quantity: 82,385 tons
- Value: (Not ranked in the top 10 by value)
Niger imports large quantities of dates to meet the nutritional needs of its population. Dates serve as a vital food source, especially in rural and semi-arid regions, where they act as a key source of energy and nutrition.
5. Turkey
- Quantity: 64,676 tons
- Value: $87,888
Turkey imports dates primarily for domestic consumption, with demand peaking during Ramadan. Dates are a popular food item during religious festivals, and the country imports a mix of medium-grade and premium varieties to cater to its diverse consumer base.
Do you know the top date exporters? Check out our article on the world’s largest dates exporters.
6. Indonesia
- Quantity: 56,742 tons
- Value: $80,522
The increasing import of dates in Indonesia is closely linked to its large Muslim population. Dates are a staple food during Ramadan and are becoming increasingly popular due to their health benefits. To meet growing demand, Indonesia focuses on a mix of affordable and mid-range dates.
7. Pakistan
- Quantity: 51,403 tons
- Value: (Not ranked in the top 10 by value)
Despite being a major date producer, Pakistan imports dates to supplement its domestic production. The imports primarily serve to meet local demand and often include high-quality varieties aimed at urban consumers.
8. France
- Quantity: 47,115 tons
- Value: $110,469
France focuses on importing high-quality date varieties. Dates are popular among health-conscious consumers and are increasingly used in gourmet cuisine and specialty desserts. France also exports dates to other European markets.
9. Kazakhstan
- Quantity: 35,581 tons
- Value: (Not ranked in the top 10 by value)
Kazakhstan imports dates mainly for domestic consumption as an affordable food source. The market in Kazakhstan is price-sensitive, with demand centered on budget-friendly varieties of dates.
10. Afghanistan
- Quantity: 31,037 tons
- Value: (Not ranked in the top 10 by value)
Afghanistan’s import volume reflects the relatively small size of its market. Dates are widely consumed in the country, especially during Ramadan. Most of the imports are destined for urban centers.
Conclusion
The global date import market reflects a balance between quantity and value. While countries like India and the UAE lead in total imports, others like Morocco and France focus on importing high-quality dates, resulting in higher import values. Dates continue to be an essential food item in many cultures, with demand driven by traditional, cultural, and health trends.
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