When businesses explore the idea of importing Iranian dates in bulk, they often have similar questions regarding varieties, packaging, logistics, certifications, and compliance. To help wholesalers, distributors, and food brands make confident decisions, we’ve compiled a detailed FAQ guide that covers everything from shelf life management to customs regulations.

1. What are the most popular Iranian date varieties for export?

Iran produces more than 400 varieties, but only a handful dominate the global market:

•    Mazafati (Bam) Dates – Soft, juicy, and perishable; popular in the Middle East and Asia.

•    Sayer Dates – Semi-dry, long shelf life; a top choice in Europe and North America.

•    Zahedi Dates – Dry and golden; favored in North America for industrial and retail use.

•    Piarom Dates – Known as the “chocolate date,” semi-dry and premium; exported to high-end markets.

•    Kabkab Dates – Large, soft, and syrupy; ideal for confectionery and culinary applications.

2. What is the typical shelf life of Iranian dates?

Shelf life depends on the variety:

•    Soft dates (Mazafati, Kabkab) – 6 to 12 months when stored in cold-chain conditions.

•    Semi-dry dates (Sayer, Piarom) – 12 to 18 months in ambient or cool storage.

•    Dry dates (Zahedi) – Up to 24 months with proper packaging.

Proper refrigeration, vacuum-sealed packaging, and temperature-controlled shipping extend freshness significantly.

3. What certifications are required for importing Iranian dates?

Importers usually request internationally recognized certifications to ensure safety and compliance, such as:

•    ISO 22000 – Food safety management system.

•    HACCP – Risk-based safety system.

•    Organic Certification – For eco-conscious and premium buyers.

•    Halal Certification – Essential for Muslim-majority countries.

These documents make customs clearance smoother and help you access wider markets.

4. How are Iranian dates packaged for bulk export?

Exporters offer flexible bulk and retail-ready packaging options:

•    5–10 kg cartons for wholesale distribution.

•    Retail-ready packs (250 g–1 kg) with labeling options.

•    Customized private-label packaging tailored to buyer branding.

For soft varieties like Mazafati, cold-storage packaging is necessary to maintain quality.

5. What is the Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) for bulk imports?

The MOQ depends on the exporter and variety:

•    Soft dates (Mazafati, Kabkab) – Usually start at 10–15 metric tons due to cold-chain logistics.

•    Semi-dry and dry dates (Sayer, Zahedi, Piarom) – MOQ ranges from 15–20 metric tons.

Larger orders typically benefit from more competitive bulk pricing.

6. How are Iranian dates shipped internationally?

•    Soft dates are shipped in refrigerated containers to preserve quality.

•    Semi-dry and dry dates can be shipped in standard containers with proper ventilation.

•    Air freight is sometimes used for urgent or premium shipments.

Most exporters use sea freight for cost efficiency when supplying large volumes.

7. Which regions import the most Iranian dates?

•    Middle East & North Africa (MENA) – The largest market due to cultural demand.

•    Europe – Growing demand for organic, semi-dry varieties like Sayer and Piarom.

•    Asia-Pacific – Rising imports in China, India, and Malaysia.

•    North America – Steady growth in health food and retail snack sectors.

8. What customs regulations should importers be aware of?

Each region has specific requirements:

•    EU – Strict controls on pesticide residues and labeling.

•    Middle East – Requires Halal certification and clear origin documentation.

•    Africa – Regulations vary but often focus on phytosanitary certificates.

Working with experienced exporters ensures full compliance and reduces clearance delays.

9. Are Iranian dates suitable for industrial use?

Yes. Many food manufacturers use Iranian dates in:

•    Energy bars and snacks.

•    Date syrup and sweeteners.

•    Confectionery and bakery products.

•    Health supplements and natural remedies.

Semi-dry varieties like Sayer and Zahedi are especially popular for processing.

10. Why should businesses choose Iranian dates over other origins?

•    Diversity of varieties – From soft to dry, each type suits different market needs.

•    Superior taste and texture – Naturally rich in flavor.

•    Competitive pricing – More affordable than dates from some rival exporters.

•    Global recognition – Iranian dates are trusted in major markets worldwide.

Final Thoughts

Importing Iranian dates in bulk is an excellent opportunity for businesses to tap into the rising global demand for healthy, natural sweeteners. With a wide range of varieties, certifications, and packaging options, Iran remains one of the most reliable sources for premium dates.

At Tamila Agrifood, we provide wholesale supply solutions with full certifications, competitive pricing, and logistics support to help importers succeed in their target markets.

Email:  tamilaagrifood@gmail.com

Call / WhatsApp:  +989141858935