Tunisia's date harvest for 2025 has exceeded 400,000 tons, a record high, according to Aicha Ghazal, Director of Crops at the Ministry of Agriculture. This surpasses previous years' production, which ranged from 340,000 to 345,000 tons. The increase in production has contributed to a rise in export revenues, which have preliminarily exceeded 1 billion dinars.
The date export season in Tunisia runs from October 1 to September 30 of the following year. As a result, the official announcement of this year's export revenues has not been made yet. However, Ghazal emphasized that Tunisia is one of the leading date-exporting countries, ranking high in terms of exported quantities and revenues. The country's dates are available in almost half of the world's countries, with exports reaching around 90 countries.
According to Ghazal, the production of dates in recent years has been steadily high, ranging from 340,000 to 345,000 tons. The majority of Tunisia's date production, approximately 70%, comes from the governorate of Kébili. The most widely produced variety is 'Deglet Noor'. The total area of palm groves in Tunisia spans around 61,000 hectares, primarily located in the governorates of Kébili, Tozeur, Gafsa, and Gabès.
The Ministry of Agriculture is currently focusing on expanding palm groves in the governorate of Tataouine. Ghazal noted that the current palm grove areas in Tataouine are relatively small. The expansion aims to increase date production in the region.
Regarding date prices in the Tunisian market, Ghazal stated that they are generally acceptable and affordable during the harvest season. However, prices may fluctuate based on stored quantities, quality, and the type of dates available for sale. The average annual consumption of dates per Tunisian citizen is between 5 and 6 kilograms.
Compared to other date-producing countries, Tunisia does not rank high in terms of local and national consumption. Ghazal attributed this to various factors, including the country's production and export priorities. The preliminary estimates for the 2026 date harvest are expected to be announced in the coming days, with projections ranging from 345,000 to 404,000 tons.
The export of dates plays a significant role in Tunisia's economy, with the country aiming to maintain its position as a leading date exporter. The Ministry of Agriculture continues to support the sector through various initiatives and programs.
Key points
- Tunisia's date harvest for 2025 has exceeded 400,000 tons, a record high.
- Export revenues from dates have preliminarily exceeded 1 billion dinars.
- The majority of Tunisia's date production comes from the governorate of Kébili.
