Find Global Middle Eastern Food Buyers, Importers, Distributors
Connect with verified Middle Eastern Food importers, wholesalers, and bulk buyers worldwide. These trusted partners are actively sourcing from reliable suppliers. Start growing your sales and global reach today!
Al-Zyad for Exporting Agricultural Crops.
Iqbal Food Inc
Honey Co., Ltd.
Namazi Trading B.V.
About markets & trends in the Middle Eastern Food industry
The Middle Eastern food industry is experiencing significant global growth, driven by increasing consumer interest in exotic flavors and healthier eating habits. Products like hummus, falafel, and tahini are gaining popularity worldwide.
Health trends are a major driver, with consumers seeking plant-based, organic, and minimally processed foods. Additionally, sustainability-focused buyers are favoring eco-friendly production methods.
Regions such as North America and Europe are adopting Middle Eastern foods into mainstream diets, while emerging markets in Asia are showing growing interest. There is also a rising demand for premium and functional variations, such as gluten-free or protein-enriched options.
Which countries import the most Middle Eastern Food?
Middle Eastern food is widely exported globally, with certain regions leading in import volumes.
- Europe: Germany, France, and the UK are top importers, driven by a growing interest in ethnic cuisines.
- North America: The US and Canada lead imports, with hummus and pita bread being particularly popular.
- Asia: Japan, South Korea, and China are emerging markets with increasing demand for Middle Eastern snacks and condiments.
- Middle East: Saudi Arabia and the UAE import significant quantities to meet local demand and re-export needs.
Traditional markets like Europe and North America dominate, but emerging markets in Asia are rapidly catching up.
Middle Eastern Food buyer segments and preferences
Understanding buyer segments is crucial for manufacturers aiming to meet market demands effectively.
- Retailers: Require consistent quality and attractive packaging to appeal to end consumers in supermarkets and specialty stores.
- Foodservice providers: Look for bulk packaging and versatile products suitable for restaurants and catering businesses.
- Distributors: Focus on competitive pricing and reliable supply chains to serve diverse markets.
- Health-conscious buyers: Demand organic, gluten-free, or vegan-certified products to meet niche dietary needs.
- Private label brands: Seek customizable options to create unique offerings under their own branding.
How to export Middle Eastern Food internationally
Exporting Middle Eastern food requires careful planning and adherence to international trade regulations.
- Market research: Identify target markets and understand their specific requirements.
- Product compliance: Ensure products meet local food safety and quality standards.
- Documentation: Prepare essential documents such as invoices, certificates of origin, and export licenses.
- Labeling: Adapt packaging and labels to comply with importing country regulations.
- Logistics: Choose reliable shipping methods and partners to ensure timely delivery.
- Customs clearance: Work with customs brokers to navigate import procedures smoothly.
Middle Eastern Food export compliance & certifications
Exporting Middle Eastern food requires compliance with stringent regulations and certifications to meet market standards.
European Union
- EU Organic Certification
- ISO 22000 for food safety management
- Halal certification for Muslim-majority markets
United States
- FDA approval
- USDA Organic Certification
- Non-GMO Project Verification
Middle East
- GCC Standardization Organization (GSO) compliance
- Halal certification
- Arabic labeling requirements
Common rejections include improper labeling, missing certifications, and non-compliance with food safety standards. Manufacturers should invest in thorough quality checks to avoid these issues.
Packaging & labeling requirements for Middle Eastern Food
Proper packaging and labeling are critical for exporting Middle Eastern food successfully.
Preferred packaging types vary by buyer segment:
- Retailers: Attractive, consumer-friendly packaging such as jars, pouches, or boxes.
- Foodservice providers: Bulk packaging, like large tubs or sacks, for cost efficiency.
- Distributors: Durable and stackable packaging for easy transportation.
Mandatory label elements include:
- Product name and description
- Ingredients list
- Nutritional information
- Country of origin
- Expiration date
- Allergen warnings
Eco-friendly materials like biodegradable plastics or recycled paper are increasingly preferred by buyers.
What's the average wholesale price for Middle Eastern Food?
Wholesale pricing for Middle Eastern food varies based on product type, quality, and origin. Prices are typically quoted as FOB (Free on Board) or CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight).
- Key cost components: Freight, duties, packaging, and exporter margins.
| Grade/Type | Price Range | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Tahini | $3,000 - $3,500 | MT | Organic, stone-ground |
| Standard Hummus | $1,200 - $1,500 | MT | Conventional, bulk packaging |
| Falafel Mix | $800 - $1,000 | MT | Dry mix, ready-to-cook |
| Specialty Spices | $5,000 - $6,000 | MT | Premium blends |
How to find Middle Eastern Food buyers, importers, distributors
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FAQs
What's included in the Middle Eastern Food buyer database?
The Middle Eastern Food buyer database includes authentic and verified contact details of importers, distributors, wholesalers, and retail chains interested in Middle Eastern cuisine. Each entry contains the company name, country, buyer type, contact person (when available), email, phone number, and notes on product focus like kebabs, falafel, hummus, etc. Many entries also include LinkedIn profiles or websites for easy outreach.
What countries import the most Middle Eastern Food?
The top Middle Eastern Food importing countries include the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and Germany. These countries have a high demand for Middle Eastern cuisine due to their diverse populations and taste preferences. The United States leads the list due to its large immigrant populations and growing interest in Middle Eastern cuisine.
What's the minimum order quantity buyers expect?
Minimum order quantities (MOQs) for Middle Eastern Food vary by buyer type. Retail chains and importers usually expect MOQs of 1–2 pallets per SKU, while distributors and wholesalers may order in bulk. Foodservice buyers often start with smaller volumes, especially for first-time orders. Exporters offering flexible MOQs have a higher chance of securing trial orders.
Should I offer FOB or CIF pricing when exporting Middle Eastern Food?
Both FOB (Free on Board) and CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) pricing methods are common when exporting Middle Eastern Food. FOB pricing is often favored by experienced buyers who manage their own logistics, while CIF pricing is more suitable for new buyers or those who prefer a complete delivery solution. Offering both pricing options allows you to cater to a wider range of international buyers.
What is the HS code for Middle Eastern Food?
The HS code for Middle Eastern Food varies depending on the specific product. For instance, the HS code for Hummus is 2106.90 which falls under miscellaneous edible preparations. It's crucial to verify the specific subheading with your customs broker or local trade authority to ensure smooth customs clearance and accurate tariff application.
How do I contact the Middle Eastern Food buyers from the database?
You can contact the Middle Eastern Food buyers directly using the provided contact details in the database — typically via email, phone, or LinkedIn. Begin with a brief, personalized introduction, include your company information, Middle Eastern food product catalog, certifications (e.g., Organic, Halal), and ask if they're currently sourcing new suppliers. Following up after 5–7 days usually results in better response rates.