Classification
Product TypeProcessed Food
Product FormDehydrated (Dried)
Industry PositionValue-Added Processed Fruit Product
Market
Dehydrated plum (prunes) is an export-oriented processed fruit product for Uzbekistan. The National Statistics Committee reports exports of 38.9 thousand tons (US$55.3 million) in January–November 2025, with China, Kazakhstan, and Russia as the main destinations; market access is sensitive to food-safety contaminant limits (e.g., ochratoxin A) and to documentation and transit reliability for a landlocked exporter.
Market RoleMajor producer and exporter (dried plums/prunes)
Market GrowthGrowing (January–November 2025 vs. corresponding period in 2024)export volumes and values increased versus the corresponding period in the prior year
Risks
Food Safety HighMycotoxin contamination risk (notably ochratoxin A) during sun drying and/or storage can trigger shipment detention or rejection in regulated markets; the EU sets a maximum level for ochratoxin A for "other dried fruits," so non-compliance can directly block market access.Implement a HACCP plan with critical controls on drying, moisture, and storage hygiene; require accredited lab testing (including ochratoxin A) per lot and retain certificates of analysis for buyers and border authorities.
Climate Water MediumWater scarcity, drought, and heat stress can disrupt fruit availability and quality, and can reduce processing continuity in irrigation-dependent agricultural systems.Diversify orchard sourcing across regions where feasible; build buffer inventory for export programs and monitor seasonal water allocation and drought indicators.
Logistics MediumLandlocked export logistics can face corridor disruptions, cross-border delays, and cost volatility that extend lead times and increase landed cost risk for buyers.Contract multiple forwarders/corridors, use realistic buffer lead times, and align Incoterms and insurance to corridor risk.
Labor Social MediumLegacy reputational risk related to historic forced labor concerns in Uzbek agriculture (especially cotton) can trigger heightened customer audits and compliance screening even for non-cotton products.Maintain a documented human-rights due diligence program (supplier code of conduct, worker protections, grievance channels) and provide credible third-party references where available.
Sustainability- High irrigation dependence and worsening water scarcity risk can affect horticulture yields and processing throughput in drought/heat years.
- Energy and water efficiency in irrigation systems is a national priority; supply risks can propagate into fruit processing and drying operations.
Labor & Social- Uzbekistan has a documented history of forced labor risks in the cotton harvest; ILO monitoring reports indicate systemic forced labor and child labor were eradicated in the 2021 cotton production cycle, but buyers may still apply enhanced due diligence given legacy reputation risk.
Standards- HACCP (Codex-aligned)
- ISO 22000
- BRCGS Food Safety
- IFS Food
FAQ
Where do Uzbek dehydrated plums (prunes) mainly export to?Government trade statistics for January–November 2025 show China as the top destination, followed by Kazakhstan and Russia, with additional exports to markets including Türkiye, Belarus, and Georgia.
What is the biggest food-safety risk that can block exports of dehydrated plums from Uzbekistan?Mycotoxin contamination—especially ochratoxin A—can lead to shipment rejection in regulated markets. The EU sets a maximum level for ochratoxin A for dried fruits, so exporters typically manage this with controlled drying and storage, HACCP controls, and lot-by-lot lab testing supported by certificates of analysis.
Which Uzbek authority issues phytosanitary certificates if an importing country requires one?Uzbekistan’s Agency for Plant Quarantine and Protection is the competent authority that issues phytosanitary certificates and quarantine permits, based on the destination country’s import requirements.