Saudi Dates Gain Popularity in India
NEW DELHI: Saudi dates are becoming a favorite choice among Indian consumers, according to traders and officials in the region. As people seek healthier options to sugar, they are turning to dates, which offer better quality compared to the Iranian varieties that formerly dominated the market.
The National Center for Palms and Dates in Saudi Arabia recently reported a 25% increase in date exports to India this year compared to last. This growth is seen as beneficial for the date industry, expanding its reach into more markets worldwide.
Local importers have noted a spike in demand, particularly for Safawi dates, known in India as Kalami, and Sukkari dates. Tariq Tabrez, who has been in the date import business since 2012, highlighted the competitive quality and pricing of Saudi dates. “When you compare Saudi dates to Iranian ones, you’ll find that the quality is much better,” he said. “Saudi dates also last longer.”
In India, dates are gaining recognition as a healthier and lower-sugar alternative to traditional sweets, which play a significant role in the country’s culinary traditions. Tabrez noted that more consumers are aware of the nutritional benefits of dates and are appreciating their flavor. While chocolates were once the go-to gift, dates are now also being given as presents.
“Sukkari dates are often used in Saudi as a sugar alternative and paired with coffee or tea. Here in India, people are adopting them for sweets and other uses,” he explained. “The demand has increased significantly over the past five years, and dates are popular year-round, not just during one season.”
Vishal Gupta, who runs a date wholesaling business in New Delhi, observed a rising interest in dates during the COVID-19 pandemic as health became a priority for many. Since then, his company has seen a 20% increase in demand for Saudi dates.
Unlike in some Arab nations where the demand surges during Ramadan, Gupta noted that in India, interest in dates spans across all religions. “Since the pandemic, more people are opting for dates,” he said. “There’s definitely a growing awareness about health among the consumers.”
