French apple exports to the Mena region have increased by 16.43 per cent between August 2019 and July 2020, (compared with 2018-2019), representing approximately 11 per cent of total French apple exports.

In total, 46,386 tonnes of French apples were exported to Mena, up from 39,839 tonnes the previous year, the top three markets being Saudi Arabia (12,975 tonnes), UAE (12,920 tonnes) and Egypt (6,210 tonnes), which together import over 66 per cent of French apple exports to the region. Other major markets include Israel, Qatar, Kuwait and Oman.

Interfel, the French fresh fruit and vegetable interprofessional organisation responsible for promoting the consumption of apples in the Middle East and the European Commission, is participating at Gulfood where they are showcasing a range fruit and vegetables.

“This underscores the large variety of apples, which are very healthy and flavourful due to the exceptional richness of the soil and the climate.

Also, 65 per cent of French apples (over 1,300 growers) are produced in eco-friendly orchards, which has also contributed considerably towards the popularity of French apples,” said Daniel Soares, Marketing Export Manager, Interfel.

 “The taste of our produce resonates well with Middle East consumers. As such, we will be highlighting the different flavours and the multiple ways in which they can be used in everyday cuisine,” added Soares.

The National Association of Apples and Pears (ANPP) divides French apples into five different categories, gourmet, fragrant, balanced, rustic and tonic. The most popular type of apple grown in France is Golden, which benefits from official marks of quality and origin.