In Lebanon, many producers prefer to supply the domestic market, despite having a quality product that meets export standards. This is the case of the family-owned plantation Daccache (not to be confused with the other plantations of the same name in Lebanon, which export). The company produces avocados, tomatoes, and cucumbers in greenhouses.
Mr. Joseph Daccache, CTO of the company, explains: "After an excellent cucumber season last year, in which we planted more than 10,000 crops of the 007 and Hero varieties, this year we have planted 25,000 Dina F1 tomatoes. We expect a very good yield, quantities, and quality to be more than satisfactory according to our Global GAP and ISO standards."
The company recently expanded its operations, planting 1,770 avocado trees of the varieties Fuerte, Pinkerton, Hass, Lambhass, and Reed. Mr. Daccache says: "We planted these trees two years ago. From next season we will start offering avocado in the market. Currently, we are focusing on the vegetative growth of the trees."
The company enjoys favorable weather and soil conditions and good equipment, which allows it to produce niche products. Mr. Daccache explains, "we work in hydroponic systems, with faster and higher production and fewer diseases. Thus, we produce better quality products than any of our competitors at the same or even lower cost. Our quality standards rank in the highest of international certifications such as Global G.A.P and ISO."
Although Daccache's operations can meet a welcoming foreign demand, the producer prefers to supply the local Lebanese market in a spirit of national preference: "Lebanese people look for their basic needs in food. Supplying them with the most popular products at a good price and good quality is a priority." This choice is also justified by its logistical advantages, adds Mr. Daccache "by working on the local market, we have better control over our quantities and can sell more quickly."
This choice remains the strategic line of the company and shapes its prospects in the years to come. "We are and will continue to supply the local Lebanese market with high-quality fruits and vegetables. In the future, we seek to expand our market within the country and improve our ability to supply the local free market and supermarkets. We will extend our operations to export after we achieve a critical quantity," Mr. Daccache concludes.
For more information:
Joseph Daccache
Daccache Agriculture
Tel: +31 6 85810666
Email: Joseph.daccache@daccache.com
Website: daccache.com