What is the exact definition of dates as a commodity?

Dates are edible fruit, either fresh or dried, derived from the date palm. They are classified under the produce category of dried fruit.

How can a buyer assess the quality of dates?

High‑quality dates should be dry, fresh, and free of mold or crystallized sugar on the skin. The flesh is typically sweet and fibrous, with colors ranging from yellow to brown or gray‑blue.

What are the recommended storage conditions for dates?

Dates should be kept in a dry environment and stored in neatly stacked rows within a box to preserve freshness. Proper storage prevents excessive drying or spoilage.

Dates

Dates are edible fruit harvested from date palm trees and are traded either fresh or dried. They are classified as a primary raw agricultural product in the produce category.

Prices, specifications and international trade for dates under HS 080410.

Dates Price

$3,998USD/t

Published reference · Jul 1, 2026

Dates Historical Unit Values

Dates is quoted in USD/t at SAU. Historical customs values may differ from the headline reference.

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Dates Exports and Imports

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Saudi Arabia led reported dates exports in 2025, at $524M.

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Dates Facts and HS Code

Dates belongs to dried fruit within produce, nuts, spices and food ingredients. Its customs classification covers HS 080410.

Dates HS Code

Also known as	Fresh date
Product type	Raw
Position in the chain	Primary
Category	Dried fruit — Produce, nuts, spices and food ingredients
HS codes	080410
Quoted in	USD/t
Reference location	SAU

Production & Handling

Processing steps for dates include Drying, Packaging.

Production and Storage

Processing steps	Drying Packaging

Uses & Risks

Dates uses, related products and documented risks.

Uses and Related Commodities

Standards	codex CXS 363-2025 — Standard for fresh dates

Sourcing risks

Risk	Category	Severity	Mitigation
Microbial spoilage (yeasts, molds, bacteria) Food safetyHigh Dates are susceptible to spoilage by yeasts (e.g., Zygosaccharomyces), molds (Aspergillus, Alternaria, Penicillium) and bacteria (Acetobacter), especially when moisture is elevated, leading to fermentation, off‑odors and potential toxin formation.	Food safety	High	Dry dates to ≤20% moisture, maintain low temperature and humidity, and enforce strict sanitation in packing and storage facilities.
Moisture condensation during handling LogisticsMedium Temperature fluctuations can cause moisture to condense on dates, creating conditions that favor growth of decay‑causing microorganisms.	Logistics	Medium	Control temperature and relative humidity throughout the supply chain and avoid rapid temperature changes.
Insect damage PestLow Insect feeding can create entry points for pathogens and reduce product quality.	Pest	Low	Implement field scouting and post‑harvest sorting to remove damaged fruits.

Dates Questions

What is the exact definition of dates as a commodity?: Dates are edible fruit, either fresh or dried, derived from the date palm. They are classified under the produce category of dried fruit.
How can a buyer assess the quality of dates?: High‑quality dates should be dry, fresh, and free of mold or crystallized sugar on the skin. The flesh is typically sweet and fibrous, with colors ranging from yellow to brown or gray‑blue.
What are the recommended storage conditions for dates?: Dates should be kept in a dry environment and stored in neatly stacked rows within a box to preserve freshness. Proper storage prevents excessive drying or spoilage.