Tunisian Trade Minister Samir Obaid has emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to prepare for the upcoming date harvest season. This approach should cover all aspects of the date production process, from production to storage and promotion, both domestically and internationally. The goal is to increase the value of dates, improve their competitiveness in foreign markets, and support small farmers, who are a crucial part of the date production system.
During a meeting to discuss preparations for the date harvest season, Obaid highlighted the importance of supporting small farmers and enhancing their capabilities. He also stressed the need for a new marketing and promotion strategy to boost the presence of Tunisian dates in international markets and diversify their destinations. The ministry is working on a special promotion plan for dates, similar to the one for olive oil, in consultation with relevant parties.
The promotion plan will focus on qualitative and targeted promotion based on market specifics and international demand. It will also emphasize promoting dates as a healthy product, rather than using current promotional methods. Obaid noted the crucial role of Tunisian trade representations abroad in promoting dates and exploring new export opportunities. He also called for a shift from seasonal promotion to a sustainable approach to marketing Tunisian dates.
The meeting, attended by various stakeholders, including the Governor of Qebli, the President of the Tunisian Union of Agriculture and Fisheries, and the CEO of the Tunisian Wholesale Markets Company, discussed preparations for the date harvest season and concerns of the sector. Participants confirmed the availability of necessary funding for various aspects of the date production system, particularly for small farmers.
The meeting also addressed issues related to transportation costs, storage, labor costs, and the organization of intermediary activities between farmers and consumers. Participants discussed the need to encourage investment in refrigeration facilities and the importance of a reference price for dates. They also touched on the impact of climate fluctuations on the sector and the need to support date derivatives and related industries.
The Governor of Qebli emphasized the importance of unified efforts and coordination at the central and regional levels to develop the date sector. He called for short-term and long-term solutions to enhance the sector's ability to create value. The date sector is not just an agricultural activity but a comprehensive economic system with production, trade, export, and social dimensions.
The sector is a vital part of the region's identity and traditions, and its dynamism needs to be maintained and developed. The meeting highlighted the need to expand the valorization of dates through support for derivatives and related industries, which can contribute to product diversification, create greater added value, and open up new export opportunities.
Key points
- Tunisian Trade Minister Samir Obaid stresses the importance of a comprehensive approach to prepare for the date harvest season.
- The ministry is working on a special promotion plan for dates to boost their presence in international markets.
- The date sector is a comprehensive economic system that requires unified efforts and coordination to develop.
