North Africa Dominates African Date Exports: Key Players and Emerging Competitors

North Africa accounts for the vast majority of Africa’s date exports. According to 2025 data compiled from Trade Map, five countries stand out in the international market: Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, and South Africa. Meanwhile, Ethiopia is seeking to establish a foothold in this sector through a comprehensive ten-year development plan.

Algeria: The Volume Leader

Algeria holds the top position in Africa by export volume, shipping approximately 185,000 tonnes in 2025 for total revenues of $184 million. Production is primarily concentrated in the southern oases, particularly in Biskra, El Oued, and Ouargla. The country boasts a substantial productive base, with the FAO estimating its 2024 production at approximately 1.34 million tonnes harvested from nearly 176,000 hectares. A significant portion of this output is destined for the domestic market.

Tunisia: The Value Champion

Tunisia ranks second in export volume, with approximately 147,000 tonnes shipped in 2025. However, it leads the African ranking in export value, generating nearly $347 million in revenues. This disparity is largely due to a higher average export price. According to Trade Map data, Tunisian dates command an average price of approximately $2,400 per tonne, compared to nearly $993 per tonne for Algerian exports. The Tunisian date industry is primarily based in the Kébili and Tozeur regions. The FAO estimates national production at approximately 400,000 tonnes in 2024, harvested from over 81,000 hectares.

Egypt: Massive Production, Moderate Exports

Egypt ranks third in exports, selling approximately 39,000 tonnes abroad in 2025 for $147 million. This figure contrasts sharply with its production capacity. With an estimated 1.75 million tonnes produced in 2024 according to the FAO, Egypt possesses the largest date production capacity on the continent. Nevertheless, a substantial share of this production remains dedicated to the national market.

Libya and South Africa: Niche Players

Libya ranks fourth, exporting nearly 16,000 tonnes in 2025 for approximately $25 million. Its production, concentrated in arid zones and oases, reached approximately 187,000 tonnes in 2024 according to the FAO.

South Africa rounds out the top five with approximately 6,200 tonnes exported, generating $26 million. The country distinguishes itself with the highest average export value in the ranking, estimated at approximately $4,100 per tonne, surpassing the other four countries listed.

Ethiopia: A Rising Competitor

Against this backdrop, Ethiopia is actively working to develop its own date industry. The country has unveiled a ten-year plan aimed at expanding date palm cultivation from approximately 6,000 to 25,000 hectares. The strategy also encompasses the development of seedlings, irrigation systems, storage facilities, packaging, and processing capabilities. Ultimately, Addis Ababa aims to establish Ethiopia as a net exporter of dates.