Exporters of fresh produce in Sudan have been frustrated by embargoes for over 20 years. Sanctions put up by the US slowdown the trade with western markets. One of the main problems was that European importers were unable to have easy money transfer.
These sanctions have now however been lifted. Sudanese companies no longer need a mediator to collect payments. Asrar Ahmed, secretary of the embassy of Sudan in Germany, is optimistic with regards to the current trade climate of her country.
The major fruit products that Sudan produces are gala melons, watermelons, dates and mangoes. “Our main target is to open markets in Europe. We’re currently active on markets in the Middle East, Asia and China. Due to the trade sanctions, we always lacked market access to Europe. Now that the sanction has been lifted, more trade options become available to us. The main challenge for these new markets is logistics, like distance and transit costs. However, our products have a shelf life of up to 40 days, so we’re bound to find a way.
Furthermore, along with a delegation of companies from Sudan, Asrar was present at the last edition of Fruit Logistica. “We’ve invited importers, exporters and produce companies from Sudan. This was our first official visit. There were producers present, with the company Zadne being one of the biggest promoters for this event,” says Ahmed.
These sanctions have now however been lifted. Sudanese companies no longer need a mediator to collect payments. Asrar Ahmed, secretary of the embassy of Sudan in Germany, is optimistic with regards to the current trade climate of her country.
The major fruit products that Sudan produces are gala melons, watermelons, dates and mangoes. “Our main target is to open markets in Europe. We’re currently active on markets in the Middle East, Asia and China. Due to the trade sanctions, we always lacked market access to Europe. Now that the sanction has been lifted, more trade options become available to us. The main challenge for these new markets is logistics, like distance and transit costs. However, our products have a shelf life of up to 40 days, so we’re bound to find a way.
Furthermore, along with a delegation of companies from Sudan, Asrar was present at the last edition of Fruit Logistica. “We’ve invited importers, exporters and produce companies from Sudan. This was our first official visit. There were producers present, with the company Zadne being one of the biggest promoters for this event,” says Ahmed.
For more information:
Asrar Ahmed
Embassy of the Republic of the Sudan (Berlin)
Tel 0049-30-890-698-24
Email a.ahmedelsiddig@mofa.gov.sd
www.mofa.gov.sd