Classification
Product TypeRaw Material
Product FormFresh
Industry PositionPrimary Agricultural Product
Raw Material
Market
Fresh grapes in Senegal function primarily as an import-supplied fresh fruit category rather than a large domestic production crop. UN Comtrade data (via WITS, HS 080610) shows Senegal imported about USD 1.804 million of fresh grapes in 2024, with South Africa, the European Union, and Egypt among the largest external suppliers. Senegal’s reported exports are small (about USD 50 thousand in 2024) and are mainly destined for neighboring Mali, consistent with limited regional redistribution and/or small local supply. Market-access execution risk is concentrated in pre-clearance and border documentation (e.g., DIPA/DPI and phytosanitary documentation) because table grapes are perishable and delays can rapidly degrade quality.
Market RoleNet importer (import-dependent consumer market)
Domestic RoleFresh fruit consumer market supplied mainly by imports for HS 080610 (fresh grapes) in available UN Comtrade trade records
Market GrowthNot Mentioned
Specification
Physical Attributes- Codex/UNECE-style minimum quality expectations for table grapes emphasize sound bunches/berries, freedom from rotting, cleanliness, freedom from abnormal external moisture, and absence of foreign smell/taste.
Compositional Metrics- Codex STAN 255-2007 includes a maturity requirement (refractometric index threshold) as part of compliance for table grapes marketed as sufficiently developed/ripe.
Grades- UNECE FFV-19 provides a common reference structure for commercial classes and tolerances for table grapes used in international trade.
Packaging- UNECE FFV-19 labeling provisions include identification, produce name, origin, and commercial specifications (e.g., class), which are relevant for imported retail and wholesale cartons.
Supply Chain
Value Chain- Exporter (origin country) → international transport (often refrigerated) → Senegal entry point → customs declaration via broker (or authorized importer) → SPS/food-product documentation checks (as applicable) → distribution to wholesalers/retail
Temperature- Fresh grapes are quality- and shelf-life-sensitive; transit delays at clearance can materially increase dehydration/decay risk, making time-to-release critical.
Shelf Life- Perishability makes documentation holds and inspection delays a practical commercial risk even when product quality is compliant at shipment.
Freight IntensityMedium
Transport ModeSea
Risks
Regulatory Compliance HighPre-clearance and border documentation failures (notably DIPA for food-product imports and DPI thresholds effective May 1, 2024, plus phytosanitary documentation where applicable) can delay or block clearance of fresh grapes in Senegal; because grapes are highly perishable, delays can convert a compliance issue into a severe quality and financial loss event.Build a Senegal-specific pre-shipment checklist covering DIPA filing requirements, DPI applicability (FOB value/containers), and the full document set cited by Senegal Customs (invoice, packing list, transport document, origin, insurance); submit/compile documents through ORBUS where used by the broker/importer before arrival.
Logistics MediumReefer freight volatility and in-port dwell time can materially raise landed cost and quality-loss risk for imported fresh grapes into Senegal, especially if clearance is not synchronized with arrival.Use reliable reefer carriers and set contractual expectations for temperature control; align ORBUS document readiness with vessel/flight schedules to minimize dwell time.
Food Safety MediumImported table grapes may be subject to pesticide-residue compliance expectations by authorities and/or buyers; non-compliance against referenced MRL frameworks can trigger rejection, recall risk, or commercial disputes.Require exporter-side residue testing aligned with Codex pesticide MRL references for grapes and retain certificates/analysis results for potential presentation during import formalities or buyer audits.
FAQ
Which documents are commonly required to clear imported fresh grapes in Senegal?Senegal Customs lists core clearance documents such as the invoice, packing list, transport document (bill of lading/air waybill), and insurance, and notes that additional documents may be requested depending on the case, including a certificate of origin, phytosanitary certificate for plant-origin products, and DIPA for food-product imports. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce’s DIPA guidance also references providing an invoice (or pro forma), possible certificate of origin, and quality documents such as phytosanitary or analysis certificates for food imports.
Is a pre-import or food-import declaration required for fresh grapes entering Senegal?Yes in many cases: the Ministry of Industry and Commerce states DIPA (food-products import declaration) is mandatory for food-product imports. Senegal Customs also states that, from May 1, 2024, DPI is mandatory for imports with FOB value at or above 500,000 CFA (and for personalized containers), so DPI applicability should be checked for each shipment.
Who are Senegal’s main foreign suppliers of fresh grapes?UN Comtrade data presented by the World Bank WITS for HS 080610 indicates that in 2024 the largest reported exporters of fresh grapes to Senegal included South Africa, the European Union, and Egypt, followed by Spain and Italy.