Middle East
Fresh produce industry news and analysis from the Middle East.
Food security fears build in Lebanon
The conflict in Lebanon is rapidly creating a food security crisis, according to the UN, as Israeli attacks prevent farmers accessing land
“Illusion of stability” exposed by Gulf crisis
The supply chain must learn to operate amid uncertainty, says Stefano Iorini of Global Star Group, focusing on “resilience, flexibility and alignment”
Lulu flies in produce to meet festive demand
Fruits and vegetables shipped in from India to ensure ample supply for Vishu celebrations
Logistics the challenge for Kenya’s expanding avocado sector
Kenya continues to set new avocado production records due to expansion and better productivity, but logistical issues are holding back exports
Maersk bolsters shipping routes into Saudi Arabia
Three new services to Jeddah Islamic Port and King Abdullah Port improve connectivity in western Saudi Arabia, a key area for imported food
Israeli growers call for urgent help from state
Israeli herb, citrus and avocado exports have been severely hit by the US-Israeli war on Iran, with growers reporting significant losses amid soaring costs
Egypt acts to limit impact of Gulf disruptions
In response to logistical and cost pressures from the war in the Middle East, Egyptian authorities and citrus exporters are implementing strategic measures to maintain trade
So far, so good, for Greek stonefruit
Greek stonefruit growers hope for a continuation of the current favourable weather conditions, as the crucial flowering period gets underway
First South African citrus forecast points to continued growth
Another record season is on the cards for South African citrus exporters despite the current turmoil across the world
Easter 4p veg deals criticised as growers face sharp cost increases
Retailer promotions will ‘warp’ price of food in consumer minds, say growers, who face millions in additional standing charges as of today
Egypt shows promise as regional hub
Egypt’s strategic location has seen the country become an important link for fresh produce between the Mediterranean and the crisis-hit Gulf
Asian shift for Philippine bananas amid Middle East disruption
Japan and Korea should provide valuable alternative outlets for Philippine banana exporters as competitors face challenges
CH Robinson profits rise despite revenue fall amid AI investment
Robinson Fresh owner secures bigger profit thanks to continued restructuring, but warns of uncertainty ahead
South African citrus faces mounting pressures from Middle East conflict
The industry is facing mounting pressures from shipping disruptions, rising costs, and constrained demand in an important market
Agricultural shipments from India to Gulf region resume
Slow cargo movement and additional costs alongside reduced access mean the situation remains challenging for fresh produce exporters
Comment: The quiet recalibration of India’s fruit imports
Soma Sengputa, trade advisor at Flanders Investment & Trade, unpacks the true impact of India’s recent free trade deal ‘blitz’
Produce prices ‘will rise’ due to Middle East conflict
Wholesalers are reporting shortages of Israeli produce and warn ‘extreme costs’ will be passed on, as inflation is expected to hit homegrown salad veg and retail food prices within six weeks
Is the UK grape market heading from feast to famine?
Analysis from UK fruit importer Richard Hochfeld predicts a switch from a demand-driven to a supply-driven market in the UK around week 16
South Africa grapples with Middle East impact
Shipping surcharges soar as exporters struggle to redirect fruit with specifications tailored specifically for Middle Eastern consumers
Berry business faces up to new challenges as growth continues
Investment in varieties, segmentation, marketing and technology will help build more profitable berry business, delegates heard at Fruitnet Berry Congress
Middle East conflict impacts airfreight options for fresh produce
Some flights have been able to reach Middle Eastern markets to supply fruit and vegetables, but global capacity has dropped as prices rise
Berry supply chain collaboration ‘essential’ amid significant cost pressures
Nick Marston, chairman of British Berry Growers, shares his thoughts on the impact of the Middle East conflict as the peak UK berry season approaches
Salix Fruits flags up three key variables to watch in Middle East conflict
Company warns that shipping routes, oil prices, and market reactions in key regions are the main risks to monitor
The real reasons behind the rise of blueberries
Fruitnet’s Mike Knowles speaks exclusively to Cort Brazelton, CEO of Fall Creek, about the product’s recent impressive growth
Middle East conflict has “limited impact” on Spanish exports
Fepex says the knock-on effect of the conflict for the industry will be seen in rising fuel and fertiliser costs
Flash Gala apple campaign reaches over 100mn people
South African premium apple brand has significantly expanded its global reach through a digital-first marketing strategy
Iran conflict continues to disrupt South African fruit shipments
Around 90 per cent of country’s fruit exports to Middle East by sea have been blocked by the crisis, forcing suppliers to divert cargo
War hits Israeli fresh produce sector
The impact within Israel remains unclear, but rocket fire has affected the stonefruit harvest in the north, while issues of labour availability persist
Risky business in the Gulf hits produce trade
The Gulf faces the possibility of fruit shortages, as vessels remain stranded at sea and new routes are sought, with few willing to take the risk
Shipping disruptions push Dubai market to seek new channels
Redirected vessels from China divert to ports in Oman and Saudi Arabia, as others are held in Asia
DP World announces record financial results for 2025
Group profits up 32.2 per cent to US$1.96bn, supported by strong European operations including milestone at UK ports
‘Some fruit supply chains may no longer be viable’
Reefer shipping expert and former Maersk Line executive Thomas Eskesen explains what conflict in the Middle East means for the fresh produce business
Italian apple exporters avoid major disruption in Middle East
Assomela says suppliers have ’largely withstood’ Middle East conflict, as strong sales and late-season timing helps to limit commercial impact
French apples stranded in Strait of Hormuz
Exporters face potential losses as more than 250 containers apparently remain stuck, with shippers competing to redirect cargo worth millions
The Middle East, resilience and the future of UK fresh produce
In the latest FPJ podcast, Nina is joined by Tom Joyce and the NFU’s Martin Emmett to discuss current and future challenges.
Fruitnet Berry Congress still the best place to track innovation in berries
Conference and networking event brings business leaders together to discuss better products, stronger supply chains, and new market trends