Market Report Week 31 - 2026

In General

Overall, the market remains slow for most commodities due to the current market conditions. This is typically a quieter period of the season and consumer demand has shifted towards more competitively priced, locally produced fruit.

Logistics continue to present a significant challenge across the region. Ongoing disruptions in the Red Sea have resulted in delays for cargo destined for Jeddah Port, while elevated supply chain and freight costs continue to place additional pressure on importers and overall market pricing. The speed of port clearances, transport availability, and cross-border logistics will remain key factors influencing product availability and overall market stability across the Middle East.

1.00 USD = 3.67 AED (Emirate Dirham)

1.00 USD = 3.75 SAD (Saudi Riyals)

1.00 USD = 123.11 BDT (Bangladeshi Taka)

1.00 USD = 95.42 INR (Indian Rupees)

1.00 USD = 16.49 ZAR (South African Rand)

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

Citrus

Lemons

Lemon supplies continued to increase as additional Southern Hemisphere shipments arrived across Middle East markets. Large quantities available, combined with slower demand, intensified downward pressure on prices. Quality variations between arrivals further complicated trading, with lower-grade fruit being heavily discounted to encourage sales.

Oranges

Egyptian Valencia oranges remained the dominant origin, although the market became increasingly competitive as South African Navel orange volumes continued to build.

Market Prices (Dubai, Kuwait and Jeddah)

Pome

South Africa is approaching the end of its Royal Gala apple season, with approximately 2–3 weeks of supply remaining. Export volumes to the Middle East are currently 31% lower than the same period last year. Royal Gala apples remain stable due to limited supply .

Pear exports have also declined significantly, down 50% year-on-year. Despite the lower volumes, the demand is currently lower as consumers favour locally produced summer fruits.

However, demand is expected to improve in the coming weeks as cooler weather returns to the Middle East, traditionally supporting stronger pear consumption.

Market Prices (Dubai, Kuwait and Jeddah)

Grape, Stone & Kiwi

Grapes

Limited volumes of Egyptian grapes continued to be available, but the market became more complicated due to sluggish demand and increased competition from alternative fruit categories.

Stone Fruit

Plums
Egyptian plum supplies remained limited; however, demand softened further, making the market increasingly difficult. Prices came under pressure as buyers remained cautious and focused on maintaining low inventory levels.

Kiwi

Kiwifruit continues to arrive from Iran via Turkey, with supplies remaining consistent.