How to start importing pistachios: Importing pistachios in 5 steps

How to Import Pistachios?

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“How to import pistachios? What are the steps involved? Where should I start?” These are common questions asked by those looking to enter the pistachio import market. In this article, Tari Trading, based on our experience, aims to assist importers and pistachio buyers worldwide by providing a step-by-step guide on the pistachio importation process. Our goal is to cover all aspects related to pistachio imports.

Let’s begin.

Step 1: Market Research

Market research for pistachios: To ensure a successful pistachio import, you must first determine if there is a demand for pistachios in your country. If there is demand, what is the desired quality level of consumers in your country? Analyze your competitors and see what price range and quality their pistachios are in. This competitive analysis can greatly assist in your market research.

Which pistachios are best for your market? :

If you have conducted thorough market research, you will understand which types and varieties of pistachios are best suited for your country’s market. Typically, various types and varieties of pistachios are available in the market, but certain types are more popular in specific countries. For example, Germany has a strong preference for Iranian pistachios, resulting in significant exports from Iran to Germany. If you are unfamiliar with pistachio varieties or want to know the best pistachio, you can read our article on What is the best pistachio in the world?

Building relationships with pistachio distributors and customers:

By participating in food exhibitions in your country, checking pistachio markets, and utilizing online platforms like social media, try to identify distributors, sellers, and buyers of pistachios in your country. This will help you avoid distribution and sales challenges after importing pistachios to your country.

Import permits for pistachios:

Once you are confident about the demand for pistachios in your country, you need to determine what permits your country requires for pistachio imports. These requirements vary from country to country and may include customs duties, specific health standards, and more.

Step 2: Finding a pistachio supplier

After ensuring you have met the internal requirements in your country, it’s time for the most crucial step in importing pistachios: finding a reliable supplier. There are several key points to consider, which we will discuss in detail here.

Key Points for Finding a Pistachio Supplier

1. Choose a Supplier from a Major Producing Country:

When selecting a pistachio supplier, it’s advisable to choose one based in a major pistachio-producing country. Reputable suppliers in these countries often purchase directly from farmers before the harvest, handling the entire process from packaging to shipping to the customer’s port. Beware of unscrupulous individuals who buy from larger suppliers and resell at higher prices with lower quality and freshness.

The top three pistachio-producing countries are:

• United States
• Iran
• Turkey
  
  These countries are the world’s largest exporters and producers of pistachios, according to global statistics.

2. Ensure the Supplier Has Health Certificates:

Health certificates are crucial, especially for food products. Most countries require these certificates for import. Products without these certifications may be rejected at customs. Some common certificates include:

• Health certificate
• Certificate of analysis (test results)
• Certificate of origin
• Organic certificate

3. Verify Supplier Insurance:

To protect your investment and mitigate risks, work with a supplier who can insure their products. If you are unfamiliar with export insurance, we have provided examples of export insurance companies and their services on our INSURANCE PAGE.

4. Create a Detailed Contract:

Ensure your contract with the supplier clearly outlines all terms and conditions, including the responsibilities of both parties. Some essential elements to include are: pistachio type, quantity, packaging, price, payment terms, shipping, insurance, and liabilities.

Step 3: Pistachio Loading Considerations

Pistachio Container Loading:

Pistachios are typically packed in 25kg and 50kg sacks or 10kg cartons, either shelled (kernel) or in-shell. These packages are loaded into shipping containers by a freight forwarding company. The supplier should provide a Bill of Lading (BL) to the customer after loading, which is a crucial document for customs clearance.

Container Weight and Capacity:

A 40-foot container typically weighs between 25,000kg and 28,000kg when loaded with pistachios. The number of packages that can fit in a container depends on the package size and whether it’s loaded on pallets. For example, a 40-foot container can hold approximately 500-560 50kg sacks or 2200-2500 10kg cartons.

Step 4: Post-Loading

Once the cargo is loaded and the supplier provides the Bill of Lading, you’ll wait for the shipment to arrive at its destination. The delivery time depends on the origin country.

Step 5: Customs Clearance

Upon arrival at your port, you’ll need to provide the necessary documents to customs for clearance. These documents typically include a commercial invoice, customs declaration, Bill of Lading, certificate of origin, health and quarantine certificate, and any additional documents required by your country.

Importing pistachios is a straightforward process when you work with experienced professionals. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.