Classification
Product TypeProcessed Food
Product FormDried
Industry PositionProcessed Agricultural Product
Market
Raisins (dried grapes, HS 080620) in Senegal are largely supplied through imports rather than domestic production. UN Comtrade-derived WITS data show Senegal imported about 371 tonnes valued at about USD 277 thousand in 2023, with the United Arab Emirates and India among key sources. Senegal’s retail system is split between a dominant traditional market (>70% of food purchases) and a growing modern segment (~30%) that includes international chains such as Auchan, Super U, Carrefour, and Exclusive. Imported products typically flow through local importers/distributors that manage customs clearance, warehousing, and distribution into both traditional and modern channels. Food control and labeling expectations are Codex-referencing, and plant-product imports are subject to phytosanitary controls, making documentation and compliance central to market access.
Market RoleNet importer (import-dependent consumer market)
Domestic RoleConsumer retail product and ingredient for baking/foodservice, supplied primarily via imports
Market GrowthMixed (2022–2024 trade data)volatile year-to-year import values
SeasonalityYear-round availability driven by imports and shelf-stable storage.
Specification
Physical Attributes- Importer/buyer acceptance commonly checks color/texture appropriate to type and limits on defects (e.g., stems, damaged or sugared raisins) consistent with Codex quality criteria.
Compositional Metrics- Moisture limits by type/style are defined in CODEX STAN 67-1981 (e.g., 18% maximum for most styles; higher for Malaga Muscatel type).
Grades- Defect allowances and quality criteria in CODEX STAN 67-1981 can be used as an import specification baseline in a Codex-referencing market such as Senegal.
Packaging- CODEX STAN 67-1981 covers raisins offered for direct consumption and raisins packed in bulk containers intended for repacking into consumer-size containers.
- USDA FAIRS (Senegal) recommends packaging resistant to tropical heat/moisture and handling, and requires French-language labeling aligned to Codex-based labeling principles.
Supply Chain
Value Chain- Exporter/packer → ocean freight → Port of Dakar → pre-clearance document submission via ORBUS single window → customs/controls and possible sampling → importer/distributor warehousing → distribution to traditional boutiques/markets and modern retail chains
Shelf Life- Shelf life depends on moisture management to prevent mold and quality degradation; CODEX STAN 67-1981 sets maximum moisture levels by type/style.
Freight IntensityMedium
Transport ModeSea
Risks
Regulatory Compliance HighSenegal’s import controls for plant products include DPV border enforcement and (per USDA FAIRS) a phytosanitary certificate requirement; missing/incorrect documents or unmet import conditions can block clearance or trigger significant delays.Confirm DPV import conditions and ensure the phytosanitary certificate and full document bundle are complete and submitted through ORBUS before shipment; align labels to French/Codex-based requirements.
Food Safety HighRaisins can face food safety non-compliance from mold/mycotoxin hazards (notably ochratoxin A) and from exceeding additive limits for bleached/golden styles; non-compliance can result in holds, rejection, or reputational damage.Apply Codex-referenced GHP/HACCP controls, verify moisture against CODEX STAN 67-1981 limits, and require supplier documentation and testing for mycotoxins and additive levels (e.g., sulphur dioxide for bleached raisins).
Logistics MediumSea freight/port dwell time and cost volatility can affect availability and landed pricing, which is critical in a market where traditional retail is highly price-driven.Use reliable forwarders, plan inventory buffers, and coordinate ORBUS pre-clearance and importer readiness to reduce port delays.
FAQ
Is a phytosanitary certificate required to import raisins into Senegal?USDA’s Senegal FAIRS report states that a phytosanitary certificate is required for imported plant products and that the Directorate of Plant Protection (DPV) performs border controls. Importers should confirm the exact requirements with DPV and their customs broker before shipping.
Where are imported raisins typically sold in Senegal?USDA’s 2025 Senegal Exporter Guide explains that traditional channels (open-air markets, boutiques, and street vendors) dominate food purchases, while modern retail chains such as Auchan, Super U, Carrefour, and Exclusive are a growing segment. Imported products are distributed into both channel types, including online grocery for some modern retailers.
Which additives are commonly regulated for raisins under Codex standards referenced in Senegal?CODEX STAN 67-1981 lists permitted ingredients (including edible vegetable oils for free-flowing raisins) and specifies additives and limits such as sulphur dioxide for bleached raisins, as well as mineral oil (food grade) and sorbitol. Senegal’s FAIRS report notes reliance on Codex-referencing standards for food regulation and labeling.