Update on the GCC countries

The Middle East market was relatively quiet throughout the week due to Eid celebrations and public holidays, with regular business resuming only on Thursday, April 3, 2025. The only commodities that performed particularly well during Eid were lemons and plums from South Africa.

• Citrus
• Pome
• Grape, Stone & Kiwi Fruit
• India & Bangladesh
• PPECB Statistics

There is currently rain in the Northern regions, and lemon picking will resume once the rain stops.

Market update

Lemon prices in the market continue to increase sharply due to limited supply available from South Africa. However, lemon prices are expected to stabilise by 17-18 April once more shipments of lemons are expected to arrive in the market from South Africa.

Although Egypt is at the end of their lemon season, there are still some stored volumes available for their local market. However, they have prioritized exporting lemons to Saudi Arabia over supplying the local market due to the high prices during Eid.  Price levels during Eid reached high levels, depending on the quality.

The market is responding well for Navels from Spain since the last week of Ramadan and continue to do well.

Grapes            

No report.

Market update

Red Globe grapes remain stable, while other red grape varieties are facing challenges. Egyptian grapes are expected to start arriving in the second week of May, while India will likely exit the market in the next 2-3 weeks. This creates a favourable window for grape sales in April, with the market relatively empty.

Stone Fruit -South Africa          

Middle East – Export volumes of plums from South Africa to the Middle East have increased by 27% compared to the same period last season.

Market update

The market performed exceptionally well during Eid, particularly with plums from South Africa.

Kiwi fruit

Only Iranian kiwifruit is available in the market, and the market is performing well due to the lack of competition from other countries. However, customers incurred losses on Chilean kiwi fruit last season, making them cautious and reluctant to purchase at high price levels. Even Greece was unable to enter the market this season due to the elevated prices. The situation could change if the market shortage occurs.

Mangoes -South Africa

No Report

Market update

No Report

India

Apple prices drop

Prices of imported apples have dropped from the highs that were achieved in previous weeks. Summer pears are now competing with Winter pears. Packhams already in market and first Vermonts will arrive next week.

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Bangladesh

No report – Eid holidays.