The Top 10 Okra Importing Countries in the Middle East

Introduction

Okra, also known as lady’s fingers or bhindi, is a popular vegetable in many Middle Eastern countries. Its versatility in cooking and nutritional benefits make it a staple in the region’s cuisine. In this report, we will analyze the top 10 okra importing countries in the Middle East, highlighting their import volumes, key players in the industry, and trends shaping the market.

1. Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is one of the largest importers of okra in the Middle East. The country’s growing population and demand for fresh produce have led to an increase in okra imports in recent years. Key players in the Saudi okra market include Almarai and Savola Group. The import volume of okra in Saudi Arabia is estimated to be around 10,000 metric tons per year.

2. United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is another significant importer of okra in the Middle East. With a diverse population and a strong demand for fresh vegetables, the UAE imports a substantial amount of okra annually. Companies like Spinneys and Carrefour are prominent players in the UAE okra market. The import volume of okra in the UAE is approximately 8,000 metric tons per year.

3. Qatar

Qatar’s rapidly growing economy and population have led to an increase in okra imports in recent years. The country imports okra from countries like India, Pakistan, and Egypt. Lulu Hypermarket and Monoprix are key players in the Qatar okra market. The import volume of okra in Qatar is estimated to be around 5,000 metric tons per year.

4. Kuwait

Kuwait is a significant importer of okra in the Middle East, with a high demand for fresh produce. The country imports okra from countries like India, Turkey, and Iran. Sultan Center and City Centre are major players in the Kuwait okra market. The import volume of okra in Kuwait is approximately 4,000 metric tons per year.

5. Oman

Oman’s growing population and demand for fresh vegetables have led to an increase in okra imports in recent years. The country imports okra from countries like Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. Carrefour and Lulu Hypermarket are key players in the Oman okra market. The import volume of okra in Oman is estimated to be around 3,000 metric tons per year.

6. Bahrain

Bahrain is a small but significant importer of okra in the Middle East. The country’s strong demand for fresh produce has led to an increase in okra imports in recent years. Companies like Al Jazira Supermarket and Lulu Hypermarket are prominent players in the Bahrain okra market. The import volume of okra in Bahrain is approximately 2,500 metric tons per year.

7. Jordan

Jordan’s growing population and demand for fresh vegetables have driven an increase in okra imports in recent years. The country imports okra from countries like Egypt, Turkey, and India. Safeway and Cozmo are key players in the Jordan okra market. The import volume of okra in Jordan is estimated to be around 2,000 metric tons per year.

8. Lebanon

Lebanon is a significant importer of okra in the Middle East, with a strong demand for fresh produce. The country imports okra from countries like Egypt, Turkey, and India. Spinneys and Carrefour are major players in the Lebanon okra market. The import volume of okra in Lebanon is approximately 1,500 metric tons per year.

9. Iraq

Iraq’s growing population and demand for fresh vegetables have led to an increase in okra imports in recent years. The country imports okra from countries like India, Iran, and Turkey. Carrefour and Lulu Hypermarket are key players in the Iraq okra market. The import volume of okra in Iraq is estimated to be around 1,000 metric tons per year.

10. Syria

Syria is a significant importer of okra in the Middle East, despite the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict in the country. The demand for fresh produce remains strong, leading to continued okra imports. Companies like Al-Shaya and Spinneys are prominent players in the Syria okra market. The import volume of okra in Syria is approximately 800 metric tons per year.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Middle East is a significant market for okra imports, with countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar leading the way. The demand for fresh produce and the growing population in the region are driving an increase in okra imports across the Middle East. Key players in the industry include supermarkets, hypermarkets, and food distribution companies. As the market continues to grow, it presents opportunities for suppliers and exporters to tap into the Middle Eastern okra market.