The Kingdom's exports of dates increased during the first annual quarter, at a value exceeding 566 million riyals

The Kingdom's exports of dates and their products during the first quarter of 2023 increased to a value exceeding 566 million riyals, an increase of 2.5% compared to the first quarter of 2022, as stored and fresh dates represented 77%, and manufacturing industries represented 23% of total exports.According to statistics issued by the National Center for Palms and Dates, Saudi date exports included 111 countries in the world, and 6 countries topped the list in terms of the increase and growth in the value of exports to them. China came in first place with an increase of 7,654,212 riyals, or 150%, followed by Austria with an increase. It amounted to 1,996,000 riyals, or 60%, then Belgium, with 1,232,592 riyals, or 23%, Turkey with 22,303,831 riyals, or 30%, Russia with 2,697,239 riyals, or 95%, and Canada with 3,993,901 riyals, or 40%.The center explained that what has been achieved reflects the interest and care of the wise leadership in enhancing non-oil revenues and developing the work system in cultivating and improving palm production, in addition to the pioneering role of the partners, led by farmers.The National Center for Palms and Dates confirmed that Saudi Vision 2030 gave great attention to the palm and dates sector through its development and sustainability, and worked from an early stage to prepare and implement programs to increase its contribution to the export of dates and their products.The center stated that the efforts made focused on the integration of national companies from the relevant government agencies and producers and exporters of dates. To facilitate export procedures, develop value chains, improve the quality and quantity of production, raise the efficiency of marketing dates, encourage investment, provide the necessary information, data and studies, improve the efficiency of the supply chain and enhance human and institutional capabilities.