Israel: Stable supply and high demand for herbs

This year, unlike previous ones, is mainly characterized with shortages and increased demand through Europe. In addition to that, weather conditions had already contributed to some of the shortages. the same goes for sources outside of Israel, in countries such as, Kenya, Ethiopia, India.

Nevertheless, supply is somewhat stabilizing with a positive direction. In addition to that and as a contingency, Arava Export Growers have strategically decided to widen their supply chain by sourcing from other countries which include, but are not limited to, Kenya, Serbia, India, Ethiopia. This move allows the company the flexibility of making up orders for those products which are short in one region but, widely available in another. So far, this strategy had proven its productivity.

"Earlier this season we witnessed damages in many of the basil fields located up north by the Beit Shaan Valley. These damages are now contained and have been dealt with, but for the winter season we also have farms located in the proximity of the Dead Sea area where climates during winter are ideal for growing top quality herbs, explains Omar Kamp from Arava. "We are counting on sufficient quantities of basil to come from the Dead Sea region during this current winter season. Aside from that, during December the weather in Israel is not yet cold enough to slow down the growth of herbs and, at the same time, not hot enough to damage their quality."

The million dollar question always comes before Christmas. Omar adimits that it is hard to predict what this year will bring but, "we seem to manage properly during Christmas."

He does expect to face obstacles along the way but is still confident to a high degree that they will comply accordingly to customers' expectations and needs.

There is currently a high demand for chives, basil, mint, coriander, dill and rosemary. However as December approaches it is customary to see an increase in demand for thyme, sage, salicornia, rosemary etc…

To fully exceed expectations, Arava offers a variety of packaging and bunching. The 1 kg box still remains most popular; this is mainly due to the fact that they are one of the few companies around still using the larger, more ventilated boxes. As for bunching, the company have the capacity to offer bunches ranging from 20 gr to 150 gr or, loose as well,

Aside from fresh herbs, Arava is also involved in exporting exotic fruits and strawberries deriving from the Gaza Strip.

For more information:
Omer Kamp
Arava Export Growers
omer@arv.co.il
www.arv.co.il