Overview
U.S. food and beverage exporters seeking to enter the Palestiniain market must use agents and distributors in the West Bank and Gaza. Palestinian importers carry limited inventory, sufficient to satisfy immediate demand and maintain distribution channels. Palestinian consumers are familiar with high quality American food brands and internationally recognized names.
The food sector is one of the most rapidly developing sectors in the West Bank and Gaza as it accounts for 20% of total local production, has a total market size of $600 million, and a labor force of more than 15,000 workers. According to industry sources, Palestinians spend around 38% of their disposable income on food. Palestinian consumers appreciate American brands and have traditionally been willing to pay for good quality and internationally recognized names. The potential for U.S. processed food exports, therefore, is very promising.
The Palestinian Food Industries Union assists local food producers in improving and promoting locally manufactured products, providing management and marketing training, and assisting them in expanding exports to regional and international markets. Some of the Union’s members are also importers of food and beverage products and raw materials needed for production. The Ministry of Agriculture is responsible for planning, developing and implementing agricultural laws, policies and regulations.
Leading Sub-Sectors
- Snack foods
- Beverages
- Dairy products
- Canned fruit and vegetable products
- Processed meat
Opportunities
- Condiments and seasoning
- Baking and cake mixes
- Juices and energy drinks
- Confectioneries
Resources
- Palestinian Food Industries Union
For further information, please contact: Assad Barsoum, Senior Commercial Specialist, Assad.Barsoum@trade.gov or +972-2-657-2688.