Import & Sourcing Guides

How to Import Iranian Dates: A Complete B2B Guide for Global Buyers

Super Administrator | Nouri Agro Team | October 17, 2026 | 8 min read
How to Import Iranian Dates: A Complete B2B Guide for Global Buyers

Iranian dates are among the most traded agricultural commodities in the Middle East, and demand from B2B buyers in the UAE, Europe, Russia, and Central Asia continues to grow. This guide explains how to import Iranian dates efficiently — from variety selection and quality standards to packaging, documentation, and buying directly from the manufacturer.

Step 1: Choose the Right Iranian Date Variety

Iran produces more than 400 date varieties, but four dominate export markets:

  • Mazafati — dark, soft, and moist; the flagship Iranian variety, popular in Europe and Russia.
  • Kalute — dark red, semi-dry, firm; excellent shelf life and transport stability.
  • Zahedi — golden, dry, and versatile; ideal for bulk and industrial use.
  • Kabkab and Sayer — semi-dry varieties well suited to retail and food service.

Each variety is available pitted or unpitted, and the choice depends on your market's preferences and packaging format.

Step 2: Verify Quality and Moisture Specifications

Moisture content is the single most important quality factor for dates. Mazafati typically ships at 15–20% moisture, while semi-dry varieties such as Kalute and Zahedi sit lower. Buyers should confirm:

  • Moisture range
  • Pitted or unpitted specification
  • Uniform size and color grading
  • Absence of foreign matter and broken fruit

Step 3: Agree on Packaging

Iranian date exporters offer packaging from 5 kg retail cartons to 10–20 kg bulk industrial cartons. Custom and private-label packaging is available when buying directly from a manufacturer. Confirm your label requirements, carton dimensions, and pallet configuration before production begins.

Step 4: Prepare Export Documentation

A standard Iranian date shipment requires:

  • Commercial invoice and packing list
  • Certificate of Origin
  • Phytosanitary certificate
  • Health certificate (where required by destination)
  • Bill of lading

Step 5: Arrange Logistics and Cold Chain

Dates are shelf-stable but benefit from controlled conditions. Mazafati is typically shipped in reefer containers at 0–5°C, while semi-dry varieties can travel in dry containers for shorter routes. Confirm loading temperatures and transit times with your supplier before booking.

Why Buy Direct from the Manufacturer?

Buying directly from an Iranian date producer — rather than through a broker — gives you:

  • Full traceability from orchard to container
  • Fresh stock from the current harvest
  • Competitive factory pricing
  • Custom packaging without intermediary markups

At Noori Agro, we produce, process, and export over 5,000 tons of Iranian dates annually — Mazafati, Kalute, Zahedi, Rabi, Kabkab, and Sayer — pitted or unpitted, packed to your specifications. Explore our date range or contact our B2B team for a quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum order for Iranian dates?

Most Iranian date exporters, including Noori Agro, work with a minimum of 5 tons per variety, though smaller trial shipments can be arranged.

Are Iranian dates available year-round?

Yes — dates are harvested in August–October and stored under controlled conditions, so supply is stable throughout the year.

Can I order private-label date packaging?

Yes. Noori Agro offers fully customized and private-label packaging for B2B buyers, including retail-ready cartons, vacuum pouches, and branded boxes.

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