FRESH FRUITS, VEGETABLES MIDDLE EAST

DECEMBER 2014

The designations employed and the presentation of material in this document do not imply the
expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the International Trade Centre concerning the
legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation
of its frontiers or boundaries.

This document has not formally been edited by the International Trade Centre.

FRESH FRUITS & VEGETABLES MIDDLE EAST

DECEMBER 2014

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

Contents
1.

Introduction ........................................................................................................................................... 1

2.

Market Dynamics .................................................................................................................................. 1

3.

4.

2.1.

United Arab Emirates - Dubai ..................................................................................................... 1

2.2.

Oman .......................................................................................................................................... 1

2.3.

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ............................................................................................................ 1

Media .................................................................................................................................................... 2
3.1.

Overview ..................................................................................................................................... 2

3.2.

United Arab Emirates.................................................................................................................. 2

3.3.

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ............................................................................................................ 5

3.4.

Oman .......................................................................................................................................... 7

Price Information ................................................................................................................................... 9

4.1.

Mango fruit juice and pulps ......................................................................................................... 9

4.2.

United Arab Emirates.................................................................................................................. 9

4.3.

Oman ........................................................................................................................................ 12

4.4.

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia .......................................................................................................... 13

5.

Exchange Rates .................................................................................................................................. 15

6.

References .......................................................................................................................................... 16

ii

1. Introduction
This is the second report in what will become a series of monthly investigations into various markets in the
Middle East/GCC. The scope of the markets will be expanded over the course of 2015.
The initial focus is on fresh and dried mango as well as chilies in the GCC area. Additionally there will be
monthly comment on the global market for mango puree and juices. This comment should be viewed in
conjunction with the ITC Market Insider platform:
http://www.intracen.org/itc/market-insider/fruit-juices-pulps-and-purees/
Being the second of these reports, we would particularly ask for feedback. As the reports are filed, a
clearer picture will emerge of market trends and the ability to forecast market sizes and prices will improve.

2. Market Dynamics
2.1. United Arab Emirates - Dubai
The current market is full of fresh vegetables, many coming from Oman, which means prices are not high
and even luxury items in demand by Western ex-pats for the Christmas celebrations, were reasonable.
With the cooler months, most products are available and the usual abundance from Salalah keeps the
store shelves well stocked and the supply continuous from across the border.
Most prolific are eggplants, beetroot, onions, cauliflowers, carrots, cabbages, broccoli, snap pears, bitter
melons, okra, acorn squash, turnips, pakoda, kohlrabi, baby marrows and paprika. The supply of green
beans has now picked up and they are back in plentiful supply.
Chilies: Along with the other vegetables, there are now a lot of very fresh chilies coming in from Oman at
cheaper prices, making them the most popular for UAE customers. Wholesalers are able to travel direct to
Oman themselves overnight and deliver the fresh produce direct to the market that morning therefore
picked and sold in less than 24 hours. Other countries chilies cannot compete for freshness and therefore
the demand is for the Omani product.
Mango: The supply of Alphonso mangoes from India has picked up this month with a constant supply still
continuing from Indonesia, which was virtually the sole supplier last month. Indonesian mango remains
cheap, as well as readily available, so this remains the fruit of choice for Asia expats. However, the
Australian R2E2 mango is in high demand from Western and Arab customers, but is in short supply.
Dried Mango: Dried Mango comes only from Thailand at present and is readily available in the wholesale
market.

2.2. Oman
Fresh, locally grown, chilies ae prolific and in high demand. There are also a few chilies coming from Iran
and India, but the freshness of the local product makes it more popular.
Alphonso mango is coming from India and Indonesia this month, as for United Arab Emirates (UAE);
however the demand is lower with a cheaper Pakistani product available. Very few shops carry mango and
most of those sold are direct from the market to the end-user. No dried mango was available in the Omani
market this month.

2.3. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

The price of tomatoes is now cheaper in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and not as expensive as last month,
due to an influx of Egyptian product now available.
The usual supply of fruit & vegetables from Syria and Jordan at this time of year is virtually non-existent,
with the exception of Kaka, leaving local wholesalers with the task of finding new suppliers and therefore
currently struggling to fill some gaps in the market.
Citrus, traditionally coming from these countries, is being replaced by South Africa, Egypt and Turkey for
lemons, with very good prices and oranges only coming from Egypt. The Spanish product, found readily
1

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

last month, is now in short supply.

Unlike its neighbours in UAE and Oman, KSA has very few mangoes in the market, although more than
last month and what is there is predominantly from Kenya and is very expensive.
Green, chili and red peppers are still expensive, although overall prices of vegetables are better and
cheaper than last month.

3. Media
3.1. Overview
With Russian bans on EU produce taking hold, an increasing number of global growers are looking toward
the lucrative markets and market hubs in the Middle East. Maintaining quality continues to be a key issue
and while one grower identified fast customs turnaround for produce as an advantage, others are looking
toward technological solutions to improve the shelf life of produce. Food security of the region as a whole
remains a key focus of authorities. Health benefits of fresh fruit and vegetables continue to be vigorously
promoted throughout the media citing a scientific basis for their claims of beating disease and improving
general health and longevity. Organic produce is also gaining an increasing profile.

3.2. United Arab Emirates

15 Dec 2014 Pakistani citrus fruit growers expect larger orders of citrus fruits from UAE, Saudi Arabia and
other GCC countries, in addition to some European countries, because of improved processing, grading
and packaging of citrus fruits. After the successful launching of mango farm tracking earlier this year,
Pakistan is now replicating this initiative with citrus fruits. Final official figures for last seasons exports are
not available, but exporters claim they surpassed the target of 300,000 tons. This seasons target remains
the same, and leading exporters claim that actual shipments will reach 400,000 tons. (See reference 1)
UAE is hosting some advanced technological solutions to growing of fresh fruit and vegetables. Panasonic
has built three electronically controlled greenhouses. For about 37,000 per greenhouse, Panasonic
promises 8 harvests instead of the usual 5 in a region that has suffered from very hot summers over the
last decade or so.
Toshiba has just launched an experimental farm in Yokosuka where chard, spinach and mizuna are grown
on polystyrene sheets on top of fertilised water. Pesticides are not needed in these enclosed, clean
spaces.
Toshiba hope to produce 2 million of vegetables per year in their farm of the future and to export the
concept abroad, especially to zones known to be difficult for farming. Sharp, the inventor of the LCD, is
testing their strawberry site in Dubai, where LED lights diffuse a purple light that encourages
photosynthesis. A bigger factory could be opened by spring 2016 in the UAE to supply the regional market
that appreciates the particularly sweet Japanese strawberries. (See reference 2)
The Russian Federation has started with the export of cucumbers to the United Arab Emirates. Air
transport for cucumbers costs 40 roubles (60 eurocents) per kilo, transport by sea costs 30 roubles (45
eurocents) per kilo, while cucumbers are purchased in the Emirates for 300 roubles (4.53 Euro) per kilo.
In the Emirates, this Vegetable is being sold at 300 roubles per kilogram. It produces a good margin, the
General Director of Churilovo, Sergey Chigintsev said. Talks with the UAE were difficult because the
countrys fruit and vegetable market is held by Indian suppliers. At first the Arab counterparts did not want
to purchase Russian cucumbers, but they changed their mind after tasting them. The advantages of
working with the UAE is the country's tax-free system, under which customs clearance is fast
"The plane comes, and after 1.5 hours you can unload your products." (See reference 3)
The countrys largest genuine farmers market opened in Dubai at the end of November and reflects a
growing awareness of and interest in, organic products. A Sharjah farmer, who was the first to be certified
as organic, says the staple produce are tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet potatoes, herbs, aubergine, marrows
and spinach. The first seeds are planted in October and the growing season lasts until about May. Only a
handful of vegetables survive the summer months. Last year there were 30 organic farms in the country.
The larger farm is 4.65 hectares in Al Dhaid, employing 50 staff, and the smaller is 2.5 hectares in Al

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

Zubair. They yield more than 100 kilograms of produce per day during the busiest periods. There are 35
greenhouses on the site, most of them protecting cucumbers.
In the past month, outdoor markets have been popping up around the country. The Ripe Food and Craft
Market now runs in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah. There are also a growing number of organic
supermarkets, including the Organic Foods and Cafe in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which imports much of its
stock, Blue Planet Green People, The Farm House and Greenheart Organic Farms Shop. Some of the
major supermarkets including Spinneys, LuLu and Carrefour also stock a small variety of products, and it
appears that from here onwards the availability of organic product is only set to grow and grow. (See
reference 4)
The Norwegian government recently made known its intention that by 2020, 15% of food production and
consumption will be organic. In France, consumption of organic fruit and vegetables has increased by
almost 10% and for the United Arab Emirates the market for packaged organic food is expected to have
grown by 30% in 2018. (See reference 5)
The embargo imposed by the Russian Federation in late July has caused Moldovan farmers to seek new
markets. Attempts have been made to enter less traditional markets, such as the Middle East countries. At
least one grower has already managed to export a shipment of 40 tons of apples to Egypt and Dubai
following participation in Dubais recent international exhibition World of perishables. The biggest challenge
is to invest in the technical means necessary to find a good balance between the cost of packaging and
prices, to ensure the goods arrive in good condition. (See reference 6)
Spain currently has issues with orange overproduction, with a harvest this year expected to reach 3.397
million tons. Of this, almost 50% is exported. 80% of that fruit is shipped to destinations within the
European Union (EU). Outside the European Union, where 20% of all orange exports are shipped
(323,600 tons), the main destinations are The Russian Federation, Switzerland, the United States of
America, Norway, Canada, Algeria, U.A.E. and Saudi Arabia. (See reference 7)
Polish growers also look with hope to the United Arab Emirates, and more specifically Dubai, as it would
allow Polish apple exports to be shipped to even more countries. From this place, our apples can then be
easily shipped to North Africa. It can be a great destination from a logistics standpoint, stated Jolanta
Kazimierska, president of the Fruit Union. Polish apples have been looking for new markets in recent
months after Vladimir Putin closed the Russian Federation border. Poland, the world's largest exporter,
shipped 75% of its entire production in The Russian Federation, almost 900 thousand tons. (See
reference 8)
A total of 6,733 visitors from 94 nations came to the IPM DUBAI and World of Perishables (WOP) DUBAI
2014 that took place in parallel - 26% up on the previous year. The growth is primarily be attributed to the
general economic upswing in the region and, in particular, to increased tourism. WOP DUBAI: More
Exhibition Area and Enlarged Country Participations
In 2014, WOP DUBAI was bigger and more international than ever. 170 exhibitors from 24 countries
introduced their innovations from the fields of fresh goods, goods security, technical equipment, transport,
trading and service. Australia, Morocco and Poland were officially there for the first time and Belgium,
China and Portugal extended their participation. (See reference 9)
FOOD freshly, the international fresh produce preservation specialist, has launched a new subsidiary in
Dubai to bring its innovative 3-PPP Concept for food hygiene to the UAE and the Middle East market.
Supported by a dedicated sales executive and local warehouse facilities, FOOD freshly Dubai will market
its freshness retainer formulations and Fruit Cleaner Antiox, along with other related dosing and
measuring equipment services. The company exhibited at the recent WOP Dubai trade show and has
confirmed the official signing of the biggest order in its history from a UAE based company. (See reference
10)
Statistics from the Gulf Organization for Industrial Consulting (GOIC) revealed that the number of GCC
food industry firms increased from 1,602 in 2009 to 1,857 in 2013, a cumulative growth rate of 3.8%.
Investments for the same period of time jumped from US$12.4 billion to $18.1 billion, a cumulative growth
rate of 10% for five years. In addition, the work force increased from about 149,000 workers in 2009 to
approximately 196,000 in 2013, a cumulative growth rate of 7%.
Food industries are becoming increasingly important to GCC countries in light of Gulf food security
objectives. Processing and preserving of fruits and vegetables statistics include processing and preserving
vegetables, preserving olives in salt or oil, preserving fruits and processing potatoes. GOIC figures

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

revealed that this sectors share in 2013 was around 11% of the total number of firms, 4.6% of the total
investments and 6.2% of the work force.
The number of firms working in this area increased from 174 in 2009 to 204 in 2013, a cumulative growth
rate of 4.1%. Investments for the same period of time dropped from $ 871 million to US$828 million, a
cumulative decline rate of -1.3%. The number of workers increased from 11,568 in 2009 to 12,191 in 2013,
a cumulative growth rate of 1.3%. (See reference 11)
Nutritional habits can decrease cancer risk. The benefits of eating cruciferous vegetables like broccoli,
Brussels sprouts, cabbage and kale, as well as tomatoes, carrots, berries, cherries and grapes and the
science behind the claims. (See reference 12)
Poland, one of the worlds biggest exporters of apples, has tapped the UAE as a new, strategic market for
its most popular agricultural export.
Since The Russian Federations ban on agricultural products from European Union countries this year,
Poland has been looking to Asia and the Middle East to fill a gap in the global market. The country exports
a total of around 3.7 million tons of apples, with the EU and North Africa as its main markets.
The UAE is an important platform for Polish produce promotion in the Asian, Middle East and West African
countries. Apart from apples, Poland also wants to start exporting other agricultural products to the UAE.
There are good prospects for Polish vegetables and possibly berries. (See reference 13)
The recently opened Ripe Food and Craft market held every Saturday at The Collection on St Regis
Saadiyat Island Resort Abu Dhabi, has elicited an enthusiastic response from residents with hundreds
flocking to buy organic fruit and vegetables. Customers said there was a lot of cheap, seasonal produce.
For instance a fresh avocado costs Dh10, Dh5 less than in supermarkets. A bag of cucumber and a bunch
of rocket leaves cost Dh10 each. A small bag of red radish is priced at Dh15, and a bag of zucchini, Dh10.
By 1pm all veggies had been sold out. Ripe Markets in Dubai and Sharjah were established in 2012 and
work with a number of local organic farms. (See reference 14)
Ramada Hotel and Suites Ajman is turning food waste into compost to grow greens. The food waste, the
bulk of its waste profile, is turned into compost, and used at an urban farm in the parking lot where
seasonal vegetables, served in its restaurant are grown. (See reference 15)
The Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA) have tied up with the Abu Dhabi Farmers Services
Centre (ADFSC) in a joint campaign to encourage the hospitality sector to use local produce in its food and
beverage offerings. The Go Local campaign was rolled out at a recent meeting in Al Ain, which is also its
agricultural heartland, when the centre briefed F&B professionals from 14 hotels throughout the emirate on
the wide range of local produce available under ADFSCs Local Harvest brand. ADFSC provides technical
and operational support services to hundreds of Abu Dhabi farmers to help them grow and market their
produce. (See reference 16)
Sundrop Farms has announced the launch of its presence in the Middle East region following a successful
funding round with global investment firm KKR for the international development of Sundrops arid climate
agribusiness.
Sundrop intends to replicate its landmark project in the South Australian desert near Port Augusta, in the
Middle East and North America.
The regional headquarters will be based in the Dubai International Financial Centre. The company grows
crops in state-of-the-art glasshouses using a unique proprietary technology developed to address the
water and food security issues typical to arid regions.
Using solar power to create the heat, electricity and desalinated water needed to feed and power growing
operations eliminates much of the need for groundwater and fossil fuels to produce its vegetables, which
include pesticide-free, carbon-neutral tomatoes, capsicums and cucumbers. (See reference 17)
Al Maya Group is keen to increase its imports of Jordanian vegetables and other products. The value of
Jordan's fruit and vegetable exports during the first three quarters of this year went up by more than 20%
to JD410 million (US$577 million) from JD340 million (US$476) during the same period of last year.
The Groups vegetable imports from Jordan include tomatoes, cauliflower, baby marrow, sweet pepper and
chilies and it expects increasing demand for Jordanian vegetables in the UAE. Imports could be increased
multifold.
Tomatoes rank number one with more than 35% of total vegetable exports value of Jordan.

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

Trade data shows that Jordan is currently a major supplier of fruits and vegetables to the Gulf Arab market,
particularly Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Al Maya Group has more than 40 supermarkets in the GCC countries in addition to other businesses and
expanded its reach in Oman and Abu Dhabi by opening new outlets this year. (See reference 18)
India plans to introduce a system to allow international consumers of Indian mangoes to trace back the fruit
to its farm of origin through the Internet as part of its efforts to persuade the European Union to lift ban on
Indian mangoes.
The success of Grapenet has encouraged us to replicate the system in mangoes, said Sudhanshu,
deputy general manager of Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority. The
EU had imposed a temporary ban on Alphonso mangoes and four vegetables from India from May 1,
stating that it had found fruit fly infestation in the fruit. This impacted exports to the United Kingdom of
Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the second largest export market for Indian mangoes after the UAE.
Following the ban, Maharashtra, the largest exporter of mangoes in the country, started using HortiSAP, an
IT-based pest surveillance system extensively for mangoes. (See reference 19)

3.3. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Honduras exports mangoes to 36 countries and is also seeking to penetrate Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and
Hong Kong in the medium term. The 2014-2015 melon harvest in Choluteca and Valle was due to begin
mid-December.
The goal for this season is to generate 70 million dollars in exports, almost 11% more than the US$63.1
million made in the 2013-2014 season. In the past two years, employers in this category have exceeded
export targets. According to the Secretary of Agriculture, Jacobo Paz, one of the novelties in this crop year
is the incursion of the Honduran melon in new markets, mainly Japan and Taiwan. (See reference 26)
Fruit and vegetable prices at the central vegetable market in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia have been registering
strong fluctuations, increasing and falling by up to 20%.
Abu Zinada attributed this to several factors, especially the decision to ban foreign workers from working in
the central market, which prompted overseas suppliers to reduce their shipments, but also the arrival of the
winter, which results in lower fruit and vegetable production volumes.
The effects of snow and cold temperatures are particularly clear with tomatoes. One day they can cost 15
riyals, and the next 50 riyals. High demand in light of the lack of supply has an impact on prices. (See
reference 27)
Spanish broccoli growers say they anticipate establishing new markets in including Dubai and Saudi
Arabia soon after tests over summer yielded good results. While high temperatures and lack of water
resources in October and November within Spain's most important production area caused some anxiety,
sufficient volumes will be harvested. The autumn season was saved through geographical diversification.
Prices werent good, particularly during October, when there were shortages at the start of the season but
now remain stable at reasonable levels. Better weather and quality in November lifted quality and sales.
Consumption has now dropped a little and thus prices are also lower, ranging between 0.30 and 0.40 Euro
per kilo at origin, and 0.75 and 0.85 Euro per kilo at the warehouse. These prices barely serve to cover
production costs, as broccoli costs about 30 or 35 cents to produce. However its expected demand will
grow in the weeks before Christmas and colder temperatures will limit production.
According to the latest data supplied by Murcia's Council of Agriculture and Water, the broccoli production
in 2014 is estimated to reach 216,179 tons; up 20% compared to last year and 23% higher than the
average of the past five years. Globally, Spain is the third largest producer behind China and India. (See
reference 28)
In a surprise move, the Riyadh municipality launched a public health campaign on various streets in Batha
and penalized 186 establishments for flouting market regulations according to a source in the municipality.
Municipal teams raided 11 premises in these areas that were being used for the storage of fruits and
vegetables in unhygienic conditions. The field teams arrested 48 vendors selling accessories and other
goods including 46,500 cartons of fruits and vegetables, which the municipality donated to charities. (See
reference 29)
The Ministry of Labor intends to nationalize the retail sector, especially baqalas (corner shops), in various
5

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

parts of the Kingdom by setting up cooperative consumer societies, a ministry official said. The move
comes following a Cabinet decision that has taken into consideration the monopoly of expatriates on some
commercial activities.
The Ministries of Labor and Interior continue to nationalize commercial activities, making good returns, the
official said, adding that cooperative societies would be able to fight monopolies and fraud.
They can also work as marketing outlets for national products, such as fruits and vegetables supplied by
agricultural cooperative societies, the official said. Establishing cooperative consumer societies is a task
recently undertaken by a number of government bodies such as the Ministries of Commerce and Industry,
Social Affairs, Municipal and Rural Affairs, Finance, Labor and other government bodies. (See reference
30)
The Al-Ahsa municipality seized and destroyed 1,707 rotten food items in November this year as part of
the municipalitys program to maintain public health. Khalid Bushel, spokesman for the municipality, said
920 kg of cooked food, vegetables and dairy products unfit for human consumption in the cities of Hofuf
and Mubaraz were confiscated and destroyed by the municipality. (See reference 31)
Several illegal expats trying to sell vegetables or others produce are gathering once again at Al-Sitteen
bridge in Jeddah, despite efforts made by authorities and a recent inspection campaign. Most of the
expatriates are from Sudan, Yemen, Pakistan, Bangladesh and some African countries. The Passport
Department carried out numerous raids in the area in coordination with a number of government agencies
and arrested dozens of people. (32)
The two main challenges facing the food industry are the talented manpower and the availability of fruit
sources, says the top executive of a major food company. Al-Rabie Saudi Food Co. produces a wide range
of fruit juices and long life milk products. Current production capacity is 450 million litres of juice and milk
and an announcement about a second factory is imminent, said CEO Monther Trad Alharthi. The
companys main market is Saudi. Export markets are the GCC countries, Yemen, Iraq, Jordan, Palestine
and Egypt. Alharthi said Saudi Arabia does not have enough fruit to make industry self-sufficient and so
depends on imports. All raw materials come from abroad mango from India, apple from Austria, orange
concentrate from Brazil, etc. (See reference 33)
JEDDAH Contract farming and increased trade ties between Greece and Saudi Arabia were the focus
of discussions with Saudi government ministers during a recent visit by Greeces vice minister for
development and competitiveness. Under contract farming, growers agree to produce certain quantities of
a product for a particular customer at a contracted price. (See reference 34)
Commercialisation of hydroponic farming is a viable answer to Mena countries suffering from a lack of
arable land and climate that are unsuitable for the mass production of food, said an industry leader. While
agricultural productivity for the region as a whole increased markedly during the 1990s due to
modernization efforts with water management, the region still faces a food deficit of 50-90 million tons by
2020.
Hydroponics offers some potential to reduce food security risks in the region and almost all the Mena
countries are now exploring the potential of soil-free agriculture and vertical farming in order to be selfsufficient in food production by 2023. Saudi Arabia imports 95 per cent of their fresh fruits and vegetables
for which the nation is paying massive premiums. (See reference 35)
The process of organising small Indian farmers into collectives such as producer companies or cooperatives is attracting the interest of foreign buyers and being promoted as a way to improve relations
with larger retailers. In the middle of this year, the EU banned import of four Indian vegetables including
eggplants (brinjals and gourds) along with mangoes on the grounds they contained harmful organisms.
Even Saudi Arabia recently banned the import of Indian green on the grounds of high pesticide residues.
However, large retail chains in Europe and West Asia are keen to source green vegetables from Indian
farmer producer organisations (FPOs) here, provided they are offered guarantee on traceability issues. So
far, about 350 FPOs have been set up across the country and another 500 are in the process of being
formed. FPOs are also seen as a potential vehicle to foster technology penetration, improve productivity
and enable improved access to inputs such as seeds and fertilisers and services such as financial and
insurance among the farming communities. Apart from enabling the famers to leverage the market for
better prices, FPOs also provide a window for channelling the funds under various schemes.
(See reference 36)
Saudi Arabia and the UAE are some of the top mango-importing countries in the world. Now, they can
have mangoes delivered right to their door through a service called Mango Jazan. Its a delivery service
6

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

that delivers nothing but mangoes.

Most of the Middle Easts mangoes come from India or Pakistan, but a small region in Saudi Arabia called
Jazan has become well known for producing some of the juiciest mangoes around. It used to be pretty
tough to get your hands on a box of Jazan mangoestheyre primarily traded locallybut the region is
now making them available to a wider consumer base through its delivery system. Since the site launched
in 2012, it has acquired 20,000 users. (See reference 37)
Saudis and expats are eagerly waiting for the low oil prices to reflect on the living costs in the Kingdom.
The recent price drop will plummet general prices in the Kingdom by more than 15%, according to experts
and analysts.
Several vital sectors in the Kingdom will be affected by the low oil prices, which are expected to lead to
shrinkage of the production costs of commodities. Many local businessmen will be forced to respond by
cutting down their services and commodities prices. The same thing will happen with food products, they
will be reduced by more than 10% as result of the low production and transportation cost. However, the low
oil prices need a time to be reflected in the local market, said an economist.
This means a great relief for consumers, as Saudi inflation edged up in 2013, averaging 3.6% in the first 10
months, mainly driven by higher food and housing costs. See reference (See reference 38)
A difficult season has seen South Australias faba bean crop down by as much as 50 per cent. However,
high prices of US$430 plus per tonne are likely to be retained. Egypt is the main market but growers
anticipate potential beyond that, particularly in Saudi Arabia and Indonesia.
The majority of Australian faba beans are delivered direct to packers rather than to the bulk handling
facilities. Of the 300 000 tons exported last year from Australia, only about 50 000 tons was exported in
bulk while the containerised trade accounted for around 250 000 tonFFs.
The faba bean harvest in France in September was followed by the United Kingdom in October and finally
the Australian crop. Egypt consistently purchases around a third of their requirement from Australia due to
the preferred colour and size of Australian faba beans, which command Production estimates for faba
beans show a 5-year average planting area of over 160 000 ha and an average yield of 1.7 t/ha and up to
3.0 t/ha in more favourable areas and under irrigation. (See reference 39)
A report on how a healthy, plant-based diet can significantly improve blood sugar levels and even
potentially leave patients free of the disease. (40)

3.4. Oman
Sakkara, originally a Jordanian group founded two generations ago, has expanded over the years, first
stepping out to the Omani market, setting up storage and distribution facilities there, and then to Egypt in
2002. The companys export business is currently based in Egypt; it imports fruit from Oman and other
parts of the world and then distributes it. In 2012 a huge, brand new packing house with cold storage
facilities and high end packing lines with Dutch technology was built.
In addition to shipping 58 to 60,000 tons of oranges per season, rendering it one of Egypts largest
distributors, Sakkara also works with grapes, pomegranates, potatoes or onions, and after introducing
carrots three years ago it has also become one of the countrys biggest players. It has distribution in
Kuwait, Oman (by far the largest), Jordan, and Saudi Arabia and started this year in The Russian
Federation. As a group, Sakkara is also one of the largest importers of bananas into Egypt. Aziz says we
also do apples, pears or plums from countries like South Africa, Chile, the United States or New Zealand.
Additionally, oranges for juicing are shipped to Europe, to destinations like the Netherlands, the United
Kingdom, Germany or Sweden.
In Asia, it already does good volumes in India, Bangladesh and Malaysia, and we do really well in Dubai,
with 400 containers of oranges per season. (See reference 20)
Interest in Islamic Finance has increased in the last few years and has the potential to develop the capital
markets of Sri Lanka and assist in the development of infrastructure along with encouraging foreign
investment in the island state. Even under the normal tax regime agriculture enjoys special tax incentives.
Projects entailing cultivation of vegetables and fruits for export market using modern technology could be
an area of investment for the Middle Eastern market. Sri Lanka also has bilateral double tax avoidance
agreements (DTA) with over 40 countries. Out of the Gulf countries, Sri Lanka has entered into DTA with
Kuwait, Oman and the UAE, and a limited DTA covering air transport with Saudi Arabia. (See reference
7

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

21)
Since the 1970s Oman has lost more than one million lime trees to a disease with no known cure, but now
a scientist from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries has found a way to grow disease-free trees to
rehabilitate the Sultanate's lime production.
A plant pathology researcher has found a way to overcome the disease by growing tissue cultures from
disease-free blossoms and grafting them onto new disease resistant rootstocks.
His project, which started in 2010 and is funded by the Agriculture and Fisheries Development Fund, aims
to produce enough disease-free trees to replenish the lime crops in Oman. (See reference 22)
A plant-based diet can significantly improve blood sugar levels and even potentially leave patients free of
diabetes. An analysis of previous studies showed a vegetarian diet had significant benefits in the treatment
of Type 2 diabetes and improved insulin sensitivity. Researchers found eating a vegetable-based diet
reduced levels of a key blood protein. (23)
Muscat: Omani farmers are facing a variety of challenges including failing irrigation systems, competition
for water, and crop disease. Farmers struggle to find the funds or expertise to treat disease. Earlier this
year swarms of locusts destroyed crops of thousands of farms across the country. Although farmers can
get aid from the government for pesticides, overuse means some new growth has been killed off and there
are calls for the government to provide more training to educate farmers. Many vegetables and fruits that
survive water shortage, contamination and ravages of parasites, decay either during storage or
transportation to the markets. Farmers cannot afford storage refrigeration that can keep their crops fresh or
vehicle cooling system during distribution over long distance, especially during the hot seasons. This is
why many consumers prefer to buy imported farm produce. (See reference 24)
Muscat: Efforts to in Lithuania aimed at promoting bilateral trade and investment with Lithuania have
resulted in Straikas, the maker of Magnum fruit and vegetable juices, entering an export agreement with an
Omani importer. The deal is expected to generate about 100,000 euros in revenue for the Lithuanian
company in 2015 alone, with the first batch is due to be ready for delivery before the end of this year.
The company believes the partnership will help it enter the broader Gulf market.
Magnum juices are already exported to numerous countries worldwide but Oman is the first Arabic export
destination for the brand. (See reference 25)

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

4. Price Information
4.1. Mango fruit juice and pulps
The market for the Alphonso variety is firm and while there are still some stocks available, Caveat Emptor
applies more than ever. Some of the available stocks are not the real Alphonso variety. There is very little
availability of the real Western Alphonso. It is reported as more or less sold out.
Due to a very poor harvest for Tommy Atkins in Latin America, Mexico is now sold out and Peru is
reporting a 20% drop in its harvest which will start next month (January 2015). This has helped the price of
Indian Totapuri to firm. India has processed lower quantities of concentrate this year, which should
contribute to a firmer price going into 2015.
Origins

Concentration

Price

Transportation

India

Alphonso, aseptic puree, 17 brix

US$1550-1650/mt

CFR Rotterdam

India

Totapuri, aseptic concentrate, 28 brix

US$1250-1350/mt

CFR Rotterdam

Mexico

Tommy Atkins, aseptic concentrate, 28 brix

US$1200-1300/mt

FCA Holland

4.2. United Arab Emirates

Item

Origin

Low price
(dhs)

High price
(dhs)

Variety

Size

Pack

Chillies
Chillies green fat

Jordan

19.5

19.5

Chillies long green

Oman

46

46

Green

10 kg

1 kg
1 box

Chillies green

India

18

18

Green

4 kg

1 box

Chillies green

Thiland

6.95

6.95

Green

1 kg

Chillies red

Thiland

7.95

7.95

Red

1 kg

Chillies sweet long green

Tunishia

15.95

15.95

Green

1 kg

Chillies green

Jordan

8.25

8.25

Green

1 kg

Chillies green

Morocco

14.5

17.5

Green

1 kg

Chillies long red

Morocco

14.5

14.5

Red

1 kg

Chillies red

Egypt

17.5

17.5

Red

1 kg

Chillies green

UAE

60

60

Light green

5 kg

1 box

Mango alphonso

Indonesia

25

25

8 pcs

1 box

Mango alphonso

India

10

10

12 pcs

Mango

Kenya

19

19

9 pcs

1 box

Mango r2e2

Australia

22

22

1 kg

1 box

Mango tomi

Brazil

9.95

9.95

1 kg

Mango round

Kenya

8.5

8.5

1 kg

Mango kent

Egypt

24

24

10 pcs

220

220

Mango

Dried mango
Mango (dried)

Thailand

4 kg

1 box

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

Item

Origin

Low price
(dhs)

High price
(dhs)

Variety

Size

Pack

Apples
Apple green

USA

110

110

Green

138 pcs

Ctn

Apple kanzi

Holland

140

140

Kanzi

15 kg

Ctn

Apple pink rose

New zealand

13

13

Pink rose

1 kg

Apple royal gala

France

85

85

Royal gala

115 pcs

Apple green

Italy

140

140

Green

16 kg

Ctn

Apple red

USA

1132

132

Red

100 pcs

Ctn

Apple fuji fancy

China

Fuji fancy

100 pcs

Ctn

Apple jazz

New zealand

Jazz

1 kg

Apple

70

70

13.5

13.5

Iran

11

11

Avocado

Kenya

24

24

Acorn squash
Awla/amla/gooseberries
(not a.)
Arvi

Oman

India

12

12

1 kg

China

28

28

10 kg

Ctn

Banana

Philippine

35

35

14 kg

1 box

Broccoli

Oman

10

10

Green

1 kg

Bitter melon

Oman

35

35

Green

10 kg

Ctn

Beans

Iran

35

35

Green

8 kg

1 box

Baby marrow

Oman

16

16

Green

18 kg

Ctn

Beet root

Oman

Red

3 kg

Ctn

Citnass

South africa

38

38

6 kg

Chikoo

India

14

14

1 box

Cantaloup

Oman

40

40

8 pcs

Ctn

Coconut

India

25

25

25 pcs

Ctn

Cauliflower

Oman

15

15

10 kg

Ctn

Cabbage

Oman

Green

10 kg

Bag

Cucumber

Saudi Arabia

50

50

Green

12 kg

Ctn

Celery

China

25

25

4 kg

1 box

Capsicum red

Holland

19.5

19.5

1 kg

Capsicum orange

Holland

16.5

16.5

1 kg

Capsicum yealow

Holland

18.5

18.5

1 kg

Capsicum green

Oman

1 kg

Capsicum mix

Holand

1 kg

Capsicum yealow

Egypt

1 kg

Capsicum red

Egypt

80

80

8 kg

Carrot

China

13

13

10 kg

Drumstick

India

50

50

Green

8 kg

1 box

Eggplant

Oman

10

10

Black

18 kg

Ctn

Eggplant jumbo

Oman

10

10

Black

18 kg

Ctn

Fresh leaves

UAE

4 kg

1 beg

Ginger (fresh)

China

23

23

8 kg

Grapefruit

India

38

38

3.5 kg

10

40 pcs

1 box

Green

12 pcs

Box

Green

10 kg

Ctn

Ctn

1 box

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

Item

Origin

Low price
(dhs)

High price
(dhs)

Variety

Size

Pack

Garlic

Oman

25

25

6 kg

Ctn

Green bean

Oman

35

35

10 kg

Ctn

Gawar

Oman

1 kg

Guava

Egypt

10

10

Iceberg lettuce

China

20

20

Kiwi

Italy

25

25

14 pcs
Green

6 pcs

Ctn

30 pcs

1 box

Kholrabi

Oman

20

20

6 kg

Lemon

Vietnam

35

35

10 kg

Box

Long pakoda

Oman

30

30

Red

10 kg

Box

Lettuce

Iran

35

35

Green

35 kg

Ctn

Mandarin

China

37

37

1 box

Mashrums

China

55

55

3 kg

Nectarines

Jordan

28

28

3 kg

Orange

Lebanon

32

32

36 pcs

Ctn

Onion

Pakistan

33

33

35 kg

Ctn

Okra

Oman

55

55

10 kg

Ctn

Pomegranate

India

20

20

12 pcs

Ctn

Pineapple

India

20

20

6 pcs

Ctn

Potato

Egypt

20

20

8 kg

Ctn

Pear

China

1 kg

1 box

Pumpkin

Oman

34

34

10 kg

1 box

Papaya

India

28

28

6 pcs

1 box

Parval

Bangladesh

25

25

4 kg

1 box

Potato

Bangladesh

45

45

18 kg

1 box

Rambutan

Vietnam

24

24

1 box

Strawberry

Egypt

40

40

8 box

Snap pea

Oman

10 kg

Sandra

China

27

27

1 box

Sweet potatoes

Lebanon

12

12

Suran

India

12

12

Ctn

turnip

Oman

10

10

4 kg
1 pcs
(medium)
10 kg

tangerine

Pakistan

30

30

6 kg

1 tray

Tomato

Jordan

10

10

6 kg

Ctn

Taro

India

26

26

5 kg

Ctn

Water melon

Oman

1 kg

Zucchini

Iran

20

20

6 kg

11

Red

Red

Ctn

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

4.3. Oman
Item

Origin

Low price
(omani riyals)

High price
(omani riyals)

Variety

Size

Pack

Chillies
Chillies

Oman

Green

10 kg

Chillies red

Oman

0.6

0.6

Red

1 kg

1 box

Chillies

India

Green

5 kg

Chillies (long)

Iran

Light
green

3 kg

Mango totapri

Pakistan

4.8

4.8

Yealow

48 pcs

Box

Mango freightie

Pakistan

10 r.

10

Green

12 kg

Box

Mango alphonso

India

1.2

1.2

Green

1 kg

Mango alphonso

Indonesia

Green

12 psc

Box

Dried mango

Not available

Apple

Iran

Yellow

42 pcs

Ctn

Apple

Usa

14.8

14.8

Green

115
pcs

Apple fuji fancy

China

11

11

Fuji fancy

112
pcs

Avocado

Torkey

3.6

3.6

Green

12 pcs

Ctn

Acorn squash

Oman

Green

8 kg

Ctn

Arvi

China

5.6

5.6

12 kg

Ctn

10 kg

1 box

Mango

Apple

Banana

Philippine

Broccoli

Oman

0.4

0.4

Green

1 kg

Bitter melon

Oman

4.5

4.5

Green

10 kg

Beans

Oman

0.4

0.4

Green

1 kg

Baby marrow

Oman

0.4

0.4

Green

1 kg

Ctn

Beet root

Oman

0.2

0.2

Red

1 kg

Ctn

Cantaloup

Oman

0.6

0.6

1 pcs

Ctn

Coconut

India

22 kg

Ctn

Cauliflower

Oman

10 kg

Ctn

Carrot

China

0.3

0.3

1 kg

1 bag

Cucumber

Oman

18 kg

Ctn

Capsicum (peppers)

India

1.6

1.6

Eggplant

Oman

1.5

1.6

Black

5 kg

Ctn

Eggplant jumbo

Oman

1.5

1.5

Black

5 kg

Ctn

Eggplant

Oman

0.4

0.4

Green

1 kg

Green

Ctn

1 kg

Grapefruit

India

3.2

3.2

4 kg

1 box

Garlic

Oman

6 kg

Ctn

Gawar

Oman

6 kg

Ctn

Green bean

Oman

Guava

Egypt

1.8

1.8

14 pcs

1 tray

Iceberg lettuce

China

2.5

2.5

Green

6 pcs

12

Green

8 kg
Ctn

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

Item

Origin

Low price
(omani riyals)

High price
(omani riyals)

Variety

Size

Pack

Kiwi

Italy

5.6

5.6

6 kg

1 box

Lemon

Lebanon

10 kg

Box

Long pakoda

Oman

Green

8 kg

Box

Lettuce

Ksa

0.3

0.3

Green

1 kg

Orange

Lebanon

40 pcs

Ctn

Onion

Pakistan

30 kg

Ctn

Okra

Oman

10 kg

Ctn

Paprika

Egypt

10 kg

Pomegranate

India

Potato

Pakistan

Pear

China

Pumpkin

Red

2 kg

Ctn

7 kg

Ctn

4.8

4.8

4 kg

1 box

Oman

4 kg

1 box

Papaya

Oman

0.4

0.6

1 pcs

Potato

Pakistan

1.6

8 kg

Strawberry

Egypt

7.2

7.2

6 kg

Sweet potatoes

India

2.8

2.8

10 kg

Snap pea

Oman

0.4

0.4

1 kg

Turnip

Oman

0.2

0.2

1 kg

Tangerine

Pakistan

3.2

3.2

4 kg

1 tray

Tomato

Oman

10 kg

Ctn

Taro

India

4.2

4.2

5 kg

Ctn

Water melon

Oman

0.2

0.2

1 kg

Red

1 box

4.4. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Item

Origin

Low
price (sr)

High price
(sr)

Variety

Size

Pack

Chillies
Short green chillies

Pakistan

45

45

Green

5 kg

Box

Long green chillies

KSA

30

30

Green

8kg

bag

Long green chillies

KSA

Green

1 kg

bag

Mango

Kaneya

40

45

16 pieces

box

Mango (frozen)

Egypt

10

1kg

pack

Apple green

France

80

85

Green

18 kg

Ctn

Apple red

Chile

95

100

Red

17 kg

Ctn

Apple fuji

Italy

100

100

Red

17 kg

Ctn

Apricot

Turkey

70

70

5kg

Box

Avocado

Kenya

35

40

20 pcs

Box

Banana

Yemeni

10

10

2 kg

Bag

Banana

Ecuador

60

60

14 kg

Box

Mango

Apple

13

Green- small

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

Item

Origin

Low
price (sr)

High price
(sr)

Banana

Usa

47

50

Beans

KSA

30

35

Beetroot

KSA

14

Carrot

KSA

Carrot
Carrot

Variety

Size

Pack

17 kg

Box

10 kg

box

15

10 kg

bag

10

10

12 kg

Bag

Turkey

10

10

8 kg

Bag

China

10

10

3 kg

Bag

Cantaloup

KSA

15

20

Ctn

Cauliflower

KSA

25

25

Cauliflower

KSA

25

25

Medium

3-4 pcs
8 small
pieces
6 piece

Cabbage

KSA

12

15

Red

6 pcs

Bag

Cabbage

KSA

10

12

Green

6 pcs

Bag

Cucumber

KSA

10

10

Green

6 kg

Ctn

Cucumber

KSA

30

30

Green

20 kg

Ctn

Chili pepper

Pakistan

Green

0.500 g

Bag

Capsicum (peppers)

KSA

Green

1 kg

Bag

Celery

KSA

10

10

Medium

3 pieces

Ctn

Eggplant

KSA

15

15

Black

10 kg

Ctn

Grapes

Lebanon

25

30

Red

4 kg

Basket

Grapes

Lebanon

10

10

Red

1.5 kg

Basket

Grapefruit

Turkey

60

60

15 kg

Ctn

Garlic

China

35

35

0.900 g

Ctn

Garlic

China

25

27

7 kg

Bag

Ginger

China

55

55

9 kg

Ctn

Green bean

Ksa

0.750 g

Box

Green

10 packs

Ctn
Ctn

Guava

Egypt

10

10

1.5 kg

Box

Kaka

Spain

35

35

4 kg

Box

Kaka

Syria

15

18

1.5 kg

Box

Kiwi

Itali

20

22

23 pieces

Box

Lemon

Egypt

20

20

8 kg

Bag

Lemon

South africa

35

40

10kg

Ctn

Lemon

Turkey

45

45

15 kg

Ctn

Lettuce

KSA

25

25

16 pieces

Ctn

Lettuce

Egypt

30

30

Lettuce

KSA

Mandarin

Morocco

25

Mandarin

Pakistan

Mandarin

Big

Small

9 pieces

Ctn

1 kg

Bag

25

5 kg

Ctn

40

40

10 kg

Ctn

Turkey

10

2.5 kg

Box

Orange

Egypt

20

20

7 kg

Ctn

Onion

Egypt

15

15

10 kg

Bag

Onion

Egypt

4kg

Bag

Onion

KSA

12

12

White

4 kg

Bag

Okra

KSA

110

110

Small

16 kg

Ctn

Okra

KSA

40

40

Big

12 kg

Ctn

14

Green

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

Item

Origin

Low
price (sr)

High price
(sr)

Variety

Size

Pack

Peach
Pomegranate

Egypt

40

40

Red

10 kg

Ctn

Pomegranate

Egypt

18

18

Red

4.5 kg

Ctn

Pineapple

Philippine

30

30

Big

8 pcs

Ctn

Pineapple

India

55

55

Medium

6 pcs

Ctn

Potato

KSA

10

10

5 kg

Bag

Potato

KSA

1.5 kg

Bag

Pear

Turkey

35

38

25 pieces

box

Pumpkin

Usa

10

10

8 pieces

Bag

Red beet root

KSA

25

25

7 kg

Ctn

Spinach

KSA

1 kg

Pack

Pumpkin

KSA

25

25

Big

3 pieces

Ctn

Strawberry

Egypt

18

18

8 packs

0250 g

Ctn

Sweet pepper

Egypt

10

10

Yellow

6 pieces

Box

Sweet pepper

Egypt

10

10

Red

6 pieces

Box

Sweet potatoes

Egypt

1,5 kg

Ctn

Tomato

Egypt

20

20

8 kg

Basket

Tomato

Egypt

10

10

5 kg

Ctn

Taro

Egypt

12

12

3 kg

Bag

Zucchini

KSA

20

20

10 kg

Ctn

Small

Big

5. Exchange Rates
We will track the relevant exchange rates for the GCC and expand as additional markets are included.
US$

US$

AED/DHS

SAR

OMR

n/a

3.67

3.75

0.384

Source: XE Currency 29 December 2014. http://www.xe.com

15

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

6. References
1.

Pakistan eyeing citrus fruit export 15 December 2014 http://www.dawn.com/news/1150833/eyingexport-of-citrus-fruit

2.

Japanese launch futuristic farms

12 December 2014
http://www.freshplaza.com/article/132562/Japanese-launch-futuristic-farms

3.

Russia to start exporting to UAE 5 December 2014 http://www.freshplaza.com/article/132244/Russiato-start-exporting-to-UAE

4.

A growing scene: Exploring organic farms in the UAE

4 December 2014
http://www.thenational.ae/arts-lifestyle/food/a-growing-scene-exploring-organic-farms-in-the-uae

5.

Organic sector still growing 1 December 2014

http://www.freshplaza.com/article/131780/Netherlands-Organic-sector-still-growing

6.

Moldovans search for new markets 5 December 2014

http://www.freshplaza.com/article/131836/Moldovans-search-for-new-markets

7.

Spain is the Mediterranean orange producer most dependent on exports 28 November 2014
http://www.freshplaza.com/article/131506/Spain-is-the-Mediterranean-orange-producer-mostdependent-on-exports

8.

Polish apples arrive in Portugal 12 December 2014 http://www.freshplaza.com/article/132518/Polishapples-arrive-in-Portugal

9.

Profiting from economic upswing in Persian Gulf 2 December 2014

http://www.freshplaza.com/article/131980/Profiting-from-economic-upswing-in-Persian-Gulf

10. FOOD freshly opens new Dubai subsidiary 2 December 2014

http://www.freshplaza.com/article/131984/FOOD-freshly-opens-new-Dubai-subsidiary
11. GCC food industry investments reach US$18bn 4 December 2014
http://www.arabnews.com/news/669446
12. Know your breast cancer-blocking diet. 3 December 2014 http://www.arabnews.com/foodhealth/news/668931
13. UAE is new apple of Polands eye. 17 December 2014
http://gulfnews.com/business/retail/uae-is-new-apple-of-poland-s-eye-1.1427910
14. New organic market on Saadiyat is a big hit 26 November 2014
http://gulfnews.com/about-gulf-news/al-nisr-portfolio/xpress/news/new-organic-market-on-saadiyat-isa-big-hit-1.1418270
15. Going green: A recycling success story. 14 December 2014
http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/environment/going-green-a-recycling-success-story-1.1423709
16. Abu Dhabi eateries urged to use local produce. 11 December 2014
http://www.khaleejtimes.com/kt-article-display1.asp?section=nationgeneral&xfile=data/nationgeneral/2014/december/nationgeneral_december86.x
ml
17. Sundrop Farms sets up ME headquarters in Dubai 15 December 2014
http://www.emirates247.com/business/sundrop-farms-sets-up-me-headquarters-in-dubai-2014-12-151.573459

16

FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

18. Al maya group keen to increase imports from Jordan 9 December 2014
http://www.zawya.com/story/Al_maya_group_keen_to_increase_imports_from_JordanZAWYA20141209133332/
19. International consumers may soon be able to track farm origin of Indian mangoes 2 December 2014
http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2014-12-02/news/56648832_1_mangonet-auditcommittee-mango-exporters
20. Sakkara on shipping oranges to China:First quality then volumes. 5 December 2014
http://www.freshplaza.com/print.asp?id=132035
21. Sri Lanka receives US$1.42 billion as foreign direct investment in 2013 7 December 2014
http://www.arabnews.com/economy/news/671241
22. Omani scientist battles Witches Broom 15 December 2014
http://www.timesofoman.com/News/44336/Article-Omani-scientist-battles%E2%80%98Witches%E2%80%99-Broom%E2%80%99
23. Plant-based diet helps beat diabetes 14 December 2014
http://www.timesofoman.com/News/44221/Article-Plant-based-diet-helps-beat-diabetes
24. Sunday Beat: Oman farmers struggle against natures odds 20 December 2014
http://www.timesofoman.com/News/44556/Article-Sunday-Beat-Oman-farmers-struggle-againstnature%E2%80%99s-odds
25. Lithuanian firm inks pact to supply juices in Oman market 6 December 2014
http://www.timesofoman.com/News/43769/Article-Lithuanian-firm-inks-pact-to-supply-juices-in-Omanmarket
26. Honduras melon export estimate +11%. 16 December 2014
http://www.freshplaza.com/print.asp?id=132704 (ELHERALDO.HN)
27. Saudi Arabia: Fluctuating prices at Jeddah Market December 2014
http://www.freshplaza.com/article/132810/Saudi-Arabia-Fluctuating-prices-at-Jeddah-Market
(aleqt.com)
28. Spain: "Broccoli campaign will be saved" 10 December 2014
http://www.freshplaza.com/article/132437/Spain-Broccoli-campaign-will-be-saved
29. 186 firms penalized for flouting civic rules 14 December 2014
http://www.arabnews.com/news/674151
30. Ministry takes steps to Saudize baqalas 1 December 2014
http://www.arabnews.com/saudi-arabia/news/668026
31. 1,707 rotten food items destroyed 12 December 2014
http://www.arabnews.com/saudi-arabia/news/673241
32. Illegal expats return to Al-Sitteen bridge 7 December 2014
http://www.arabnews.com/news/670926
33. Commitment to quality vital to succeed in Saudi market December 2014
http://www.arabnews.com/economy/news/671251
34. Saudi Arabia and Greece discuss the possibilities:Contract farming in focus
28 November 2014
http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index.cfm?method=home.regcon&contentid=20141129225867
35. Hydroponics answer to Mena food 10 December 2014
http://www.tradearabia.com/news/MISC_271245.htm

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FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE MIDDLE EAST

36. Vegetable farmers collectives spark foreign buyers interest 27 November 2014
http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/agri-biz/vegetable-farmers-collectivesspark-foreign-buyers-interest/article6640377.ece
37. Its Like Uber, But For Mangoes 19 December 2014 http://magazine.good.is/articles/uber-mangodelivery-saudi-arabia
38. People expect low oil prices will bring relief 21 December 2014
http://menafn.com/1094049534/Saudi-People-expect-low-oil-prices-will-bring-relief
39. Faba bean prices support growers in a tough year 18 December 2014
http://www.theislanderonline.com.au/story/2773444/faba-bean-prices-support-growers-in-a-toughyear/?cs=12
40. Plant-based diet helps beat diabetes 14 December
http://www.times1.timesofoman.com/News/44221/Article-Plant-based-diet-helps-beat-diabetes

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