However, according to Shafeeque Siyad of the import company Al Jamila, those reports are exaggerated. “The current situation is that all import through the borders has been shut down. Instead, all import is right now being done by sea and airfreight and through Iran. While this does cause a delay of maybe two to three days, it does mean we still have access to produce from all over the world,” says Shafeeque.
Apart from the delays, the current situation has caused slight increases in logistic costs. Other than that, demand and supply are normal. Like other Islamic countries, Qatar is currently observing Ramadan. “All fruit types have seen more demand. We’ve also been importing more potatoes from Pakistan and France and we’re currently sourcing stone fruit from suppliers in Italy and the Netherlands.”
He also added that consumers in Qatar have become more aware of quality and have an increasing need for fresh fruits. Depending on the season, produce is sourced from Europe, North America, Chile and Brazil, with most fruit being imported from Europe. “The current emerging trends are for apples, oranges and mangoes.”
For more information:
Shafeeque Siyad
Al Jamila Vegetables and Fruits
Tel+ 974 6632 3570
Email: [email protected]
[email protected]
http://aljamilafruits.com/
