Weather conditions impact Barhi date yields in Egypt

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The Egyptian barhi date season is approaching and looks promising despite a decline in yield, according to Egyptian grower Nihal Abdel Ghaffar, CEO of Accretive Co for Agriculture.

The grower says: “The season is scheduled to begin at the end of August and will last until mid-October. This is indeed a short season for dates, as this variety is also a fresh fruit. We are encountering some production difficulties this season due to unfavorable weather fluctuations, which are causing yield losses. However, we remain confident that this will make this year’s harvest all the more valuable.”

The decline in yields is offset by a sharp increase in cultivated area, according to Nihal: “In many farms, we are seeing a drop in yields of up to 40%, but volumes will remain stable thanks to the increase in cultivated area. This variety is booming in Egypt, with millions of trees planted in recent years, raising the surface area to more than 58,000 hectares. Above all, the quantities of high-quality crops destined for the high-value markets will remain stable.”

The fruit is making a name for itself in the markets and enjoying a surge in demand, according to Nihal. She says, “Barhi is quickly catching the eye of retailers who want to offer something different. Unlike the familiar soft or semi-dry dates, Barhi is eaten fresh, crisp, juicy, and naturally sweet. It’s a perfect fit for consumers: clean label, minimally processed, rich in fiber, and full of character. Whether it’s for high-end fruit counters or health-conscious snack ranges, Barhi is becoming a go-to seasonal star.”

“With limited availability and growing demand, especially from Europe and Asia, this season is shaping up to be a seller’s market. Prices are expected to rise, and quality will be key. There will be competition among exporters to source quality crops. Egyptian exporters, including Atfa, will focus on careful sorting, quick cold chain handling, and responsive delivery,” Nihal concludes.

For more information:
Nihal Abdel Ghaffar
Accretive Co for agriculture (Atfa)
Tel: +20 1001 914191
Email: [email protected]
www.atfaegypt.com

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Source: The Plantations International Agroforestry Group of Companies