Market
Fresh plums in Lebanon are produced for domestic consumption and also shipped as a regional export commodity (HS 080940). In 2022, Lebanon exported about USD 5.3 million (about 4.09 million kg) of fresh plums and sloes, with Egypt as the largest destination and additional shipments to Gulf markets such as the UAE, Kuwait, and Qatar. Lebanon also imports fresh plums to supplement supply, with 2022 imports reported at about USD 0.40 million (about 0.71 million kg), and 2023 inbound supply including Turkey and Jordan as notable exporters to Lebanon. Export readiness and market access for fresh plums depend heavily on phytosanitary compliance (Lebanese Ministry of Agriculture plant quarantine) and correct documentation, including certificates of origin where preferential access applies.
Market RoleNet exporter (regional)
Domestic RoleDomestic fresh fruit market with seasonal domestic production and supplementary imports
Risks
Security and Armed Conflict HighLebanon’s security environment includes risks of armed conflict and civil unrest, creating a material risk of sudden disruption to farm operations, inland transport, and port/airport access for time-sensitive fresh fruit exports such as plums.Use diversified packing/dispatch options where feasible, maintain contingency routing and buffer timing, and include force majeure and delivery-flexibility clauses aligned with shipment seasonality.
Conflict Impact on Agriculture MediumOfficial assessments report significant damages and losses to Lebanon’s agriculture sector linked to conflict impacts during 2023–2024, with affected areas including Southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley, which can impair horticulture supply continuity and quality consistency.Map supplier orchards and packhouses by risk area, apply lot-level sourcing diversification, and validate post-harvest handling capacity before committing to export programs.
Regulatory Compliance MediumFresh plums are plant-based products that may require phytosanitary certification and other agriculture/health certificates depending on the destination market; documentation or SPS non-compliance can cause border delays or rejection for perishable shipments.Align shipment specs with destination import requirements early, coordinate inspections/certificates through Lebanon’s Ministry of Agriculture plant quarantine service, and verify supporting laboratory test documentation where required.
Documentation Gap MediumLebanon import/export procedures rely on SAD-based declarations and a document set (invoice, packing list, proof of payment/ownership, and certificates as applicable); inconsistencies can delay clearance and degrade fresh-fruit quality due to time sensitivity.Run a pre-shipment documentation checklist (SAD fields, HS code, origin statements, and certificate set) and use experienced customs/forwarding agents for perishable cargo.
Sustainability- Conflict-related damage and losses affecting agricultural production and rural infrastructure in Lebanon
- Agricultural input cost and infrastructure constraints linked to Lebanon’s ongoing economic crisis
Labor & Social- Heightened socio-economic stress and food insecurity context since 2019 can increase operational risk for agricultural supply chains (financing, labor availability, and compliance capacity).
FAQ
Where did Lebanon export fresh plums (HS 080940) in 2022?In 2022, the largest reported destination for Lebanon’s exports of fresh plums and sloes (HS 080940) was Egypt, followed by Gulf markets including the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Qatar (with additional exports to Oman among others).
Which documents are commonly required for importing goods into Lebanon, and when might a phytosanitary certificate apply?Common Lebanon import documents include an SAD-based declaration, bill of lading, packing list, and commercial invoice, plus a certificate of origin when origin is not clearly stated; additional documents may apply by product type, including phytosanitary certificates for relevant plant-based goods.
Which Lebanese authority is listed as the official phytosanitary contact point for import/export and plant quarantine matters?The International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) lists the Lebanese Ministry of Agriculture’s Import, Export and Plant Quarantine Service as the official contact point for phytosanitary matters.