Exports of Tunisian dates, especially the variety Deglet Nour, are seeing good days thanks to the popularity of this variety in the international markets. According to Mr. Nasri Abdelhamid, general manager of the Tunisian producer Afrimex, the Deglet Nour remains undoubtedly the most famous and also the most requested by consumers, to the point that it represents 80% of volumes produced by Afrimex.
This success is explained by the fact that the consumption of dates in general, and Deglet Nour in particular, is adopted by more consumers because of the fruit's health benefits. "Previously, our exports were limited to ethnic Arab and Turkish markets and related to the calendar of celebrations. Today, consumption is becoming a daily habit and adopted by more and more European consumers".
Mr. Nasri added that the grower Afrimex produces and exports Deglet Nour throughout the year, with production peaks during the month of Ramadan and at the end of the year. Through the company's subsidiary in Germany, Afrimex supplies ethnic markets, wholesalers, and supermarkets in Germany, France, Italy, Austria, East Europe and the UK.
The Deglet Nour variety is also enjoying a beginning of demand from the African and South East Asian markets, as well as from South America. Mr. Nasri said: "We will capitalize on the fame of this variety to enter these markets. We offer a product of a very good quality that will be appreciated by the customers, beyond its nutritional benefits, our produce has a more favorable aesthetic aspect thanks to its lighter color, and a very good honeyed taste, and presentable sizes".
Afrimex can count on a major advantage, which is the short distance of Tunisia from the European continent "We can deliver anywhere in Europe in only 5 days, which allows us to offer a quality product at a lower cost," said Mr. Nasri. "We control the whole chain in all its stages: growing, collecting, exporting, and reselling in Europe, by our own facilities, workers, and know-how."
The company also benefits from its irrigation capabilities, allowing it to continue to increase its volumes and meet growing demand, at a time when other producers are lowering their volumes due to weather conditions and water shortages.
For more information:
Mr. Nasri Abdelhamid
Afrimex
Tel: +216 96 615 510
Email: a.nasri@afrimex.net
Website: afrimex.net