Israel began exporting bell peppers to the USA last week. That's via Gilad Produce. "We started a little later than usual. The recent hot Israeli weather caused the first harvest to be a little small. So, the size grading wasn't suitable for export," says Frank Mosterd. "Israeli bell pepper acreage is fairly stable. But the number of suppliers is decreasing noticeably over the years."
"We're well underway with air freight to America, mainly of organic peppers. The first orders for conventional bell peppers are also coming in," says Frank. "The current extremely high air freight prices are a real challenge. The American export bell pepper sales prices are at a high level. But you must consider this in light of the air freight prices. Russian sales prices are normal."
These are also Israeli bell peppers' largest export markets. "We mustn't be in Europe with Israeli products in November and December. Especially considering the price of Spanish peppers. Russia remains this product's most important market. What Germany is to the Netherlands, Russia to Israel."
"The domestic market is becoming increasingly important too. The recently concluded peace agreement may also offer opportunities for expanding exports to Israel's neighboring countries. These borders are now open on paper. But, it's a different matter to get trade into place logistically," concludes Frank.
