The UAE is one of the biggest exporters of dates in the world. With more than 40 million palm trees planted across the country, it is one of the biggest date-producing countries in the world.
The UAE's share of global date exports stood at $221 million in 2016 according to the Dubai Chamber and according to reports published by UMI, the Middle East dates fruit market is anticipated to reach a market valuation of US$ 9.14 billion by 2025.
It therefore is no surprise, that hundreds of businesses in the UAE specialize in producing, trading or retailing dates. Among them however are only few globally recognized brands.
Which is why The Brand Consult LLC. spearheaded by Tina Memic, Managing Director, and former COO of Bateel International is specialized on supporting such businesses to further flourish.
The Queen of Dates, as she is tenderly called by the industry, has more than 12 years’ experience in the sector, and a great passion for dates. “Dates have been and always will be the symbol of our nation, an emblem of hospitality. They represent the UAE’s heritage and culture. We need to share these values with the world!” Says Mrs. Memic.
“The date-businesses in the Middle East often aren’t applying best practices yet, that are already standard in other sectors. They are behind in terms of business development, to market strategy and certification. I have an extreme passion for dates. Everything from the pollination, to harvesting, processing and retailing is fascinating. I therefore enjoy to consult date-businesses on how to restructure, optimize and market their product to a wider audience” says Tina Memic.
More than 100 million date trees are cultivated at a global scale, with more than 90% grown in the Middle East. Favorable climatic conditions, rising production and competitive economic advantage enjoyed by the Middle East region for date production are the major factors driving the dates fruit market in the region.
“The potential of gourmet dates on international markets is immense, especially organic dates are increasing in demand world-wide, as the health-consciousness of consumers is growing. We should use the UAE’s competitive advantage and the strategic location to further boost local date producing businesses.” Mrs. Memic elaborates.
Dates – which come in hundreds of varieties – play a significant role in the economy in many of the countries along the fertile crescent and with favorable economic forecasts for the date producing businesses, this surely is an industry to further pay attention to.
For more information:
The Brand Consult
Email: info@thebrandconsult.com