Saudi Arabia announced Wednesday the end of a ban on Lebanese imports, including fresh produce, that had been in place since 2021. Hania Chahal, Lebanese agricultural marketing economist, welcomes the decision and outlines what it means for Lebanese exporters.

“This is a long-awaited decision here in Lebanon. It is a very positive move on the part of Saudi Arabia, and an incentive for Lebanon and Lebanese exporters during these difficult times. The weight of the ban was significant, as the Saudi market accounted for 60% of Lebanese fresh produce exports,” Chahal says.

The timing of the ban’s lifting comes as a relief, according to Chahal: “We needed a break. Things have been tough given the successive crises and wars. The lifting of the ban has been in the works since last year, thanks to considerable advocacy efforts, and the political situation in Lebanon has changed significantly recently, through targeted and tireless efforts by the government, giving the ban lifting a strong chance to happen.”

The resumption of trade, however, will not be immediate. “Now that the ban has been lifted, it will take some time for exports to resume. It won’t happen overnight; exporters need to start planning. Many companies need to revive their contacts. Saudi Arabia has updated its regulatory framework for fresh produce imports while the ban was in place, adding another layer of adjustment for suppliers looking to re-enter the market.”

“Lebanese exporters need to view Saudi Arabia as a new market now. Since the ban was imposed, other sources have filled the gap left by Lebanon, such as Turkey, Egypt, Latin America, and Europe. The market landscape has changed drastically, and the Lebanese agribusiness sector needs to factor that in.”

© Ddkg | Dreamstime

Saudi Arabia’s own agricultural development adds to the competitive pressure. “Saudi Arabia has already begun its own domestic production under Vision 2030. Lebanon needs to work on competitiveness and conduct a more careful study of the market, who’s who, and what is in demand,” the economist adds.

Chahal nonetheless sees the reopening as an opportunity to demonstrate how far Lebanese agriculture has come. “The industry has made great strides and is now export-oriented, targeting diversified global markets, with enhanced production and certifications. If you are able to comply with EU standards, you are fully equipped to export anywhere.”

The five-year ban also leaves a lasting lesson. “Not putting all eggs in one basket and diversifying markets- that is a lesson learned. The ban was painful, but it may have accelerated a transition toward market diversification that the sector now carries as a durable competitive edge.”

For more information:
Hania Chahal
Tel: +961 30 428 72
Email: [email protected]