Market
Raisins (HS 080620 dried grapes) in Lebanon function primarily as an import-dependent retail and ingredient market. In 2024, Lebanon imported about USD 4.6 million of dried grapes, with Iran and Chile among the largest reported suppliers by value. Raisins are sold both as a consumer dried-fruit item and as an ingredient used by bakeries, confectioners, and foodservice. A smaller export flow (often consistent with re-export activity) is also recorded for 2024, but imports exceed exports.
Market RoleNet importer (import-dependent consumer and ingredient market)
Domestic RoleHousehold consumption and as an ingredient for bakery/confectionery and foodservice use; often also repacked for retail from imported bulk lots.
SeasonalityYear-round market availability driven largely by imports; demand spikes may occur around holidays but are not quantified here.
Risks
Sanctions And Financial Compliance HighA key reported supplier of dried grapes (HS 080620) to Lebanon in 2024 is Iran; sanctions regimes and related banking/shipping due diligence can block payments, delay shipments, or trigger de-risking by intermediaries, disrupting supply availability.Diversify sourcing beyond sanctioned/high-risk jurisdictions; conduct counterparty and vessel screening; document end-use and compliance steps; use compliant payment channels and trade finance structures.
Geopolitical Security HighRegional escalation and an unstable security environment can create sudden transport disruption (routes, insurance availability, and operational constraints), increasing the risk of inbound shipment delays and supply gaps for imported dried foods.Maintain safety stock; pre-book logistics; include disruption clauses in contracts; monitor official advisories and carrier notices; use alternative routing/ports where feasible.
Macroeconomic And FX MediumLebanon’s fragile macroeconomic environment can constrain trade finance and importer liquidity, increasing the risk of late payments, contract renegotiation, and inventory volatility for imported food items like raisins.Use secured payment terms (e.g., confirmed L/C where available), tighter credit controls, and smaller/more frequent shipments aligned to cash flow.
Food Safety MediumTreated/bleached raisins may use sulphur dioxide (INS 220) under Codex dried-fruit provisions; inadequate labeling or exceedance of applicable limits can create compliance risk and consumer health concerns (sulphite sensitivity).Specify and test for sulphite residues where relevant; ensure ingredient/additive declarations and mandatory label elements comply with Lebanese labeling standards and importer requirements.