See recent trade news around the world from Brazil, Egypt, Georgia, Malaysia, Uganda, and the United States.
Brazil: Phytosanitary Measures for Dates from UAE
On September 6, 2022, Brazil notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) new phytosanitary requirements for the imports of dried date fruit (Phoenix dactylifera) from the United Arab Emirates.
Egypt: New Suez Canal Toll Rates to be Applied in 2023
According to the Suez Canal Authority, transit tolls for all types of vessels will increase by 15% during 2023 while that increase is at 10% for dry bulk ships and cruise ships as of the beginning of January of next year.
Adm. Ossama Rabiee, SCA’s Chairman and Managing Director, stated that the increase is due to current global inflation rates that reached more than 8%, which translates into increased operational costs and the costs of the navigational services provided in the Canal.
Georgia: New Program to Boost Agricultural Exports
In August 2022, the United States Agency for International Development Agriculture Program, Enterprise Georgia and the Rural Development Agency of Georgia launched a new program to establish export market connections for Georgian companies involved in agriculture business.
According to Enterprise Georgia, this initiative aims to connect Georgian producers with interested buyers in Germany and Persian Gulf countries. It also noted that walnut export-oriented enterprises were selected for the program.
Malaysia: Opportunities for US Food Processing Ingredient Exports
A recent USDA GAIN report from September 12, 2022, analyzes economic opportunities for US agricultural companies to supply Malaysian industry with tree nuts, among other products. Food and beverages manufactured in Malaysia not only serve domestic consumers but are also exported to many neighboring countries.
Uganda: Standards for Cashews and Dried Fruits
On September 19, 2022, Uganda notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) new standards for cashews and dried fruits.
- The Draft Standard for raw cashew nuts entered into force on May 14, 2022. More information
- The Draft Standard for roasted cashew kernels entered into force on May 14, 2022. More information
- The Draft Standard for cashew butter entered into force on May 14, 2022. More information
- The Draft Standard for dried fruits entered into force on May 14, 2022. More information
USA: First Trade Mission in Spain and Portugal
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service will hold its first-ever agricultural trade mission to Madrid, Spain, on November 29-December 2. Applications from US exporters were accepted until September 19, 2022.
During the mission, participants will conduct business-to-business meetings with potential importers, receive in-depth market briefings, and participate in site visits and other networking opportunities.
According to the USDA, both countries have the potential to increase imports of US agricultural products including tree nuts.