Tunisian peach and apricot growers are expecting a good season, thanks to strong demand, good weather conditions, and better productivity this year, according to Mohamed Akermi, CEO of Tunileaf.
"We are putting the finishing touches and preparing to send the first shipments of the season. At Tunileaf, we have quadrupled our peach and apricot volumes compared to last year by increasing acreage and improving productivity. We have made many improvements to our operations," says Akermi.
In terms of demand, Akermi expects Tunisia to benefit from changes in the global market this year. He explains: "We usually export to the Gulf countries, such as Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, as these countries absorb large volumes of Tunisian agricultural production in general. But this year we are also targeting other markets, given the strong demand in Europe and the fact that we have quality, varieties, and sizes suitable for the European market. In peaches and apricots, this year we plan to export to Spain, Germany, and France.
On the European demand, Akermi adds: "We also have other products currently in demand in Europe, such as tomatoes and peppers, for which we have received requests from buyers in Germany and the Netherlands. Given the decline in volumes of Moroccan tomatoes, many European buyers are turning to other countries, including Tunisia, which allows us to strengthen our position in the market."
According to Akermi, the weather in Tunisia is currently good and the Tunisian agricultural sector is spared: "the situation is good in general, with a disparity in the regions. The center and south are affected by drought and the stress of the water table, so much so that the government has banned some hydrovorous crops in these regions. In contrast, in the north and west, the water table is intact and rich, and dam reserves are high."
For more information:
Mr. Akermi Mohamed
TuniLeaf
Tel: +21654559332
Email: m.akermi@tunileaf.com