GULF STATES

Feedback from the Trade on Their Plans and Interest in the USA Pear Season:

Trade from UAE, Qatar, and Jordan attended Fruit Attraction and are keen on meeting USA Pear suppliers. They are optimistic about placing large orders in 2025-2026 (relative to previous years). Trade visits revealed that they are interested in larger sizes of USA Green and Red Anjou - but expect that brokers will not be apple to supply them with the desired volume. Reliance on broker margins is also hurting USA Pear competitiveness - especially against Argentinian, South African, and European product. In order to regain market share in the UAE (and consequently the rest of the GCC), regional importers need to forge new relationships with USA Pear suppliers. Dubai has announced plans to expand the fruit & vegetable market, doubling its size, in partnership with DP World. There are concerns this will lead to further consolidation. Recent months showed state-owned investment funds beginning to expand further abroad after a brief pause. Unifrutti, controlled by ADQ, has been active in growing its global fruit portfolio via acquisitions in Latin America. So far, this does not include pear production.

Expectations for Any Freight or Logistics Challenges:

Current shipments from Seattle/Tacoma to Jebel Ali face extended transit times due to Red Sea diversions via the Cape of Good Hope (adding 10–14 days) and port congestion in Dubai causing a further 5–7 day delay.

Opportunities in Your Market for Specific Varieties, Sizes, and Grades:

The market can absorb a strong volume of Anjou, while traders are also seeking new varieties with a crunchy texture and/or a blush appearance.

Update on the Competition in the Market:

Regional suppliers such as Lebanon and Turkey have worked on improving packaging and distribution. Argentinean Anjou pears are currently the main competition for USA Green Anjou. They are available in decent volumes among several retailers - including organic. Korean Shingo pears can be seen in some high-end branches, but the price is high compared to other varieties. South African Forelle pears are common, but there is a slight decrease in South African pear varieties in the market. Italian Abate Fetel and Dutch Conference pears are sold in packs of 4 in premium outlets.

Political or Economic Issues Impacting Imports, Retail, or Consumer Behavior:

The UAE is projecting continued growth in 2025, but external risks remain.

Other Brief Comments:

None.