Citrus and mangoes among the products that have seen overseas sales slump since the war in Gaza
Israel’s fruit farmers are warning of a collapse in exports, especially in Europe, due to buyers boycotting Israeli produce since the start of the Gaza war.
As reported by public broadcaster Kan 11, buyers are reducing or cancelling orders of mangoes, citrus and other products, with some farmers quoted suggesting that European distributors only sourcing from Isarel if there is no other alternative.
“They don’t want our mangoes,” one farmer told the broadcaster. “In Europe, they talk to us only if they’re missing something. Only then do they buy from us. If they have an alternative, they avoid it.”
Meanwhile, the Houthis’ blockade of the Red Sea is forcing shipping companies to use longer and more expensive routes. The resulting delays in shipments and impact on the condition of fruit on arrival has reportedly compromised the Asian market.
Citrus and mango growers warn that part of the harvest is being lost, with fruit remaining on the trees or rotting before being sold, resulting in significant economic losses. Even the traditional Jaffa orange, one of the historical symbols of Israeli agricultural exports, has seen a notable reduction in its presence in international markets, according to reports.
According to Kan 11, Israel is beginning to be perceived, in certain markets, as part of a “boycotted countries alliance,” a category that reflects the economic impact of armed conflicts and diplomatic tensions on foreign trade.
