The export campaign for Tunisian dates to Morocco was officially launched this week, following a meeting of the Interprofessional Date Group (GID) with professional exporters. This decision ends the controversy arising on social networks around an alleged suspension of exports to the Shereef kingdom.
A firm denial from the Group
The commercial director of the GID, Kaïs Ben Arafa, categorically denied any suspension of Tunisian exports to Morocco, saying that the information disseminated online was “unfounded”.
According to him, the press release recently published by the Group had the sole objective of setting the regulatory framework for the new season (2025–2026), and not to exclude a commercial partner.
He recalled that the Moroccan market occupied first place during the past season, with nearly 23,000 tonnes exported, ahead of the European and Asian markets.
A promising season for Deglet Nour
Kaïs Ben Arafa also underlined that production indicators were on the rise, with growth estimated at 16% compared to the previous season. The GID has initiated several coordination meetings with exporters and the authorities concerned in order to ensure the success of the 2025–2026 campaign, particularly on logistical and quality aspects.
Concerning the production reference prices, they were set at 5200 millimes/kg for dates of larger caliber, and at 4500 millimes/kg for medium calibers.
A call to presidential order
The controversy surrounding the supposed blocking of exports has also reached the Presidency of the Republic. During a meeting held the day before with the Minister of Agriculture Imed Ben Cheikh, President Kaïs Saïed reacted strongly, believing that a poorly worded press release had led to confusion.
“At a time when Tunisia is working to find new markets for its dates, an irresponsible press release evokes the exclusion of a sister country. Our brothers always remain our brothers,” he declared, calling for more rigor in official communication.
Diversification prospects
In addition to Morocco, Tunisia is seeking to diversify its outlets towards Asian and African markets, as part of a strategy aimed at strengthening the competitiveness of the date industry. The GID is banking on the premium quality of Deglet Nour, an emblematic product from southern Tunisia, particularly from the governorate of Kébili, which remains the main production area.
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