Market
Dehydrated plum (dried prunes; HS 081320) is a small, import-dependent processed fruit category in Lebanon. In 2023, Lebanon imported about USD 314,780 (69,209 kg) of dried prunes, with Chile and the United States as the largest supplier origins by value. Market access hinges on correct customs documentation (SAD-based declaration, bill of lading, invoice, packing list, certificate of origin) and compliant prepackaged-food labeling aligned with Lebanese standards practice. Macroeconomic stress and banking-sector dysfunction remain a critical operational risk for payment terms and import continuity. Shelf-stable product characteristics support year-round availability, but quality risk centers on moisture control and defects (mold/foreign material/insect damage).
Market RoleImport-dependent consumer market
Domestic RolePrimarily imported processed fruit; any domestic dried-prune production is not evidenced in the sources reviewed
Market Growth
SeasonalityImports support year-round availability; no reliable Lebanon-specific monthly seasonality pattern identified.
Risks
Macroeconomic & Payment HighLebanon’s prolonged financial and banking-sector crisis (including frozen deposits and limited credit intermediation) can disrupt import financing, payment execution, and supplier willingness to extend terms—creating a potential deal-blocker for consistent dried-prune imports.Use conservative payment terms (e.g., confirmed LC/advance/secured terms), limit open-account exposure, and align shipment sizing with verified FX and liquidity availability.
Regulatory Compliance MediumNon-compliant labeling and missing/incorrect import documentation can trigger clearance delays, re-labeling, or rejection; Lebanon references LIBNOR prepackaged-food labeling standards and customs documentation requirements (SAD/Single Customs Declaration, invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin).Run a pre-shipment document and label conformity check with the Lebanese importer/customs broker; ensure labels are prepared in accepted languages and exclude prohibited language elements.
Food Safety MediumDried fruits, including prunes, are susceptible to quality and safety defects (e.g., mold/fungal decay, insect damage, sand/soil or other foreign material), which can lead to rejection and brand damage.Require lot-level COA and supplier defect-control program; maintain dry storage and verify packaging integrity to prevent moisture-driven spoilage.
Logistics MediumPort handling delays, regional security spillovers, and administrative processing requirements (including additional authorizations for food cargo cited in CIQP guidance) can cause demurrage, shelf-life loss from poor storage conditions, or missed retail windows.Use an experienced Lebanese customs broker, submit documents early, and plan buffer time for authorizations and port clearance.
FAQ
What HS code is typically used for dehydrated plum (dried prunes) in trade statistics?Dried prunes are classified under HS 081320 (“prunes, dried”) in the UN HS nomenclature.
Which countries supplied most of Lebanon’s dried prune imports in 2023?In 2023, Lebanon’s recorded HS 081320 dried prune imports were led by Chile, followed by the United States, with smaller values from France (WITS/UN Comtrade partner breakdown).
What documents are commonly required to import goods into Lebanon (and likely relevant to dried prunes)?Common requirements include a SAD/Single Customs Declaration, original commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, delivery order, and (when needed) a certificate of origin, plus other certificates or authorizations depending on the product category.