GULF STATES

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

USA Pears in the Gulf States face a challenging outlook this season due to limited import volumes caused by limited availability of the desired grade and size at a competitive price. Regional importers enjoy strong and long-lasting relationships with their US suppliers. They believe that USA Pears have a strong brand image in the UAE and have expressed interest in importing larger quantities of higher grade product in the future.

Expectations for Any Freight or Logistics Challenges:

Recently, Houthi leadership (Yemen) pledged to no longer target non-Israeli merchant shipping in the Red Sea. However, shipping companies (CMA CGM, Maersk, and MSC) remain weary of the situation and will continue to avoid sending shipments through the Red Sea for the time being.

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

The Gulf States remains a premium market for imported fruits and vegetables. Retail locations usually display a large range of fruits. Large sizes, high grades, and new varieties are always of interest to both importers and end consumers. Retailers and wholesalers in the UAE are beginning to adopt the "ultra premium" and "luxury" fruit package trends in greater frequency - with some of the repackaging taking place locally in the UAE. USA Pears are a good candidate for this type of brand positioning.

Update on the Competition in the Market:

Variety of pears on display in retail locations this season is mediocre compared to previous years post-COVID. Nashi, Conference, and a small range of South African pears are the norm in hypermarket displays. Prices are also slightly higher than previous years. Celina pears from SA did not perform as expected, and have been seen in small quantities.

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

Gulf States consumer behavior towards US products in the UAE has not been greatly affected by recent events in the region.

Other Brief Comments:

None at this time.