Balqa, April 4 (Petra) -- Jordanian dates have accessed 55 international markets with quality products capable of competing globally, said stakeholders.

The Jordanian dates see widespread international demand due to their high quality and commercial brands in the markets, head of the Jordanian Dates Association Anwar Haddad told Petra in an interview.

The dates industry, he said, is a successful national project that contributed to building an integrated quality system, providing added economic value, and opening export markets, in line with the goals of the economic modernization vision and enhancing national food security.

Haddad said Jordan produces about 36,000 tons of various date brands annually, exporting around 18,000 tons to Arab and European markets.

Jordanian dates reach 55 global markets, with the cultivated area currently covering about 49,000 dunams (12,000 hectares), a figure that could be expanded in the future with available additional water resources.

Dates grown primarily in the Jordan Valley are distinguished by a rich flavor and high nutritional value, and farmers have adopted modern farming and irrigation techniques, which contributed to improved product quality and increased yields, producers said.

Government efforts and private sector investments have also played a significant part in enhancing Jordanian dates as a distinctive national product with a strong international reputation.

Haddad said about 80% of date production is packaged mechanically in specialized facilities to maintain quality. He noted that the date sector employs some 12,000 people, half of whom women, and requires a workforce year-round, thus ensuring a level of job security.

He said the association provides date palm farmers with various forms of support, including knowledge and information about market conditions, production volumes, imports, and exports. It also sends monthly newsletters containing agricultural guidelines and advocates for their interests regarding taxes and customs duties, aiming to alleviate their burdens and encourage them to continue cultivating the land, he added.

//Petra//SS