ISRAEL

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

Interest in USA Pears remains strong, driven by a smaller domestic crop, the absence of Turkish pears, and reduced supply from Greece/Italy. As of January 20, 2026, the remaining balance under Israel’s tariff-free import quota for U.S. pears was only 94 tons for the year (out of 1,164 tons). This suggests the 2026 tariff-free volume will be fully utilized very early in the year. The accelerated pace of imports is a logical result of tighter overall pear supply and continued demand for U.S. product.

Expectations for Any Freight or Logistics Challenges:

Following improved stability in and around the Red Sea corridor, Maersk is resuming regular, structured transits through the Red Sea and Suez Canal for its MECL service, which connects the Middle East and India with the U.S. East Coast, starting in late January 2026 (beginning with the westbound sailing departing Salalah on January 26, 2026). The return to trans-Suez routing is intended to restore more efficient transit times versus Cape of Good Hope diversions, while Maersk notes it will continue to monitor security conditions and prioritize safety in the corridor.

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

Locally-grown pears are generally smaller and often show visible skin defects, which creates a clear opportunity for U.S. exporters to position larger sizes and higher grades as a premium alternative. The strongest potential is for large-count fruit (retail-friendly “big, attractive pears”) with clean skin and consistent color, targeted to top supermarket chains and higher-income shopper segments. This opportunity is especially relevant when the local crop is limited and retailers need reliable volumes and uniform quality to maintain category standards.

Update on the Competition in the Market:

Italian and Greek pears have been less visible in the market, reflecting the smaller harvests. Overall, the competitive landscape remains stable, with only minimal price movement for locally-grown Spadona and Coscia varieties compared to December levels. At the same time, promotional “sales” activity is increasing across multiple retail chains, with discounted offers typically priced around 25 to 30% below the prevailing average. Argentina - a key Southern Hemisphere competitor - has faced weather-related supply pressure. In late January 2026, heavy rain and hail hit major pear-producing areas in the Alto Valle during the harvest window, causing direct fruit damage and lowering packout quality. This is expected to tighten Argentina’s export availability and reduce competitive pressure from Southern Hemisphere pears in early 2026. Regarding Turkey, Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar expressed hope for improved relations between Ankara and Tel Aviv, which have worsened since the start of the Gaza war. Prior to Turkey’s suspension of trade with Israel, Turkey was a major supplier of fresh pears to the Israeli market, alongside Argentina and Greece. Any normalization of trade could reopen Turkish supply and increase competitive pressure in pears.

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

Starting January 1, 2026, Israel introduced a new wave of price increases, including key utilities such as electricity, cooking gas, and water tariffs that reduce household disposable income. These cost pressures are likely to increase consumer price sensitivity and strengthen retailer focus on sharper promotions and value pricing. For food exporters to Israel, this may translate into tighter retail margins and more cautious buying for higher-priced products, unless supported by clear value messaging and promotions.

Other Brief Comments:

Despite the war, the Israeli shekel has strengthened, supported by calmer market sentiment and a relatively resilient economy. A stronger shekel improves importers’ buying power in local currency, which can help U.S. fresh fruit compete on price and support retail promotions.