Dates Import in India: 2025 Market Insights, Key Importers, and HS Codes

India has emerged as the largest importer of dates in the world, with consumption steadily rising due to changing dietary preferences, festive demand, and the growing popularity of health foods. In 2023 alone, India imported approximately 490,589,000 kg of fresh and dried dates, valued at over $267 million, highlighting the country's significant reliance on international suppliers.

This article explores the current state of dates import in India, key importers, top HS Codes, and the countries that dominate this growing trade.

Why Does India Import Dates?

Although India cultivates dates in states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu, domestic production falls short of the national demand, especially during Ramadan and other festive periods. Gulf nations such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Iran, and Iraq are known for producing premium varieties like Ajwa, Medjool, Safawi, Kalmi, Mabroom, and Sukari, making them primary suppliers to the Indian market.

These dates are valued for their rich taste, high nutritional content, and religious significance in India, contributing to consistent import growth.

Indias Dates Import Data: 2025 Outlook

According to import statistics:

• Import Value (2023): $267.18 million

• Total Quantity Imported: 490,589,000 kg

• Total Shipments: 6,520

• Number of Indian Buyers: 415

• Number of Foreign Exporters: 1,170

• Key Supplier Countries: Iran, Iraq, UAE

• Growth Rate (Year-over-Year): 13%

• Monthly Growth (Feb 2024 vs. Jan 2024): 15%

• Year-on-Year Increase (Feb 2024 vs. Feb 2023): 18%

The data clearly shows that India's date imports are on a sharp upward trajectory, with shipments increasing month-on-month and year-on-year. This growth is expected to continue as more health-conscious consumers turn to dates as a daily dietary addition.

Who Are the Top Date Importers in India?

The Indian market is dominated by several large importers who play a vital role in sourcing, packaging, and distributing dates across the country. The top khajoor importers in India include:

• Pisum Food Services

• Fast Track CFS Private Limited

• Bait Al Tamur Co.

• Faaris International

• Barkaat Packaging

• Samta Speciality Foods

• Aayat Overseas

• Sarah International

• Dates Kingdom

These companies import both dry and wet dates, catering to retail chains, wholesale markets, and e-commerce platforms.

Dates HS Codes List

If you're planning to enter the dates import-export business, understanding HS Codes is critical. Here are the main HS Codes for dates:

Import Duty on Dates in India

India levies Basic Customs Duty (BCD) of 20% to 30% on dates, along with a 10% Social Welfare Surcharge (SWC). Additionally, the Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) is applied based on the combined assessable value. Import duties vary depending on the form of dates dried, soft, or hard.

Traders and importers must stay updated on these rates to avoid compliance issues.

Top Date-Importing Countries Globally

According to global trade data, the top importers of dates are:

1. India 490,589 metric tonnes

2. Morocco 132,465 metric tonnes

3. Turkey 64,676 metric tonnes

4. Pakistan 56,522 metric tonnes

5. France 47,099 metric tonnes

6. Kazakhstan 35,581 metric tonnes

7. China 28,460 metric tonnes

8. Germany 26,458 metric tonnes

9. United Kingdom 24,148 metric tonnes

10. Netherlands 18,736 metric tonnes

How to Find Date Buyers in India?

If you're looking to connect with date importers or buyers in India, platforms like Seair Exim Solutions provide detailed databases on Indian trade data. You can explore:

• Verified importer and exporter contact details

• Dates shipment volumes and destination ports

• HS Code-wise breakdown

• Historical and current trade trends

Seair Exim offers access to trade data for over 120+ countries, including India, Vietnam, UAE, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, and more.

Final Thoughts

The Indian dates market continues to flourish, driven by rising demand, festive consumption, and health trends. While domestic production is picking up, imports from Gulf countries remain dominant. For exporters and importers, this presents a profitable opportunity.

Whether youre a business owner, trader, or market analyst, staying updated with dates import data, HS codes, top importers, and global trade trends is crucial. Visit Seair Exim Solutions today for the most reliable and up-to-date trade insights.