Current Mazafati Dates Export Prices in Iran

Why do Mazafati dates from Iran vary so widely in export price? This question matters for every importer, trader, and sourcing manager seeking a fair deal. In 2026, global demand for this soft, caramel-sweet variety continues to rise, especially from India, Europe, and the Gulf region. Yet, pricing depends heavily on season, grade, packaging, and logistics. Understanding these factors helps buyers negotiate confidently and forecast costs more accurately.

Understanding the Value of Mazafati Dates

Mazafati dates—also called Kimia or Rotab—come mainly from Bam and Jiroft in Iran’s Kerman province. Known for their rich flavor, high moisture, and glossy skin, they are classified as premium “wet dates.” Their delicate texture requires refrigerated transport, which affects export cost. These dates are favored in Ramadan and festive seasons, when demand peaks globally.

Current Export Price Benchmarks in 2026

According to trade data and Iranian exporter listings, Mazafati export prices currently range between USD 0.90 and 2.10 per kilogram FOB Bandar Abbas, depending on grade and packaging.

• Grade AA (Premium, 5 kg cartons) – USD 1.80–2.10 per kg FOB
• Grade A (Standard, 5–10 kg bulk) – USD 1.30–1.60 per kg FOB
• Grade B (Industrial / reprocessing) – USD 0.90–1.10 per kg FOB

Buyers sourcing in higher volumes can often negotiate discounts of 3–8 percent. Prices under CIF terms (delivered to port) can vary based on freight costs, which fluctuate with shipping container availability and route.

Table: Cost Factors Impacting Price

Factors Influencing Export Prices

Several elements shape the export price of Mazafati dates:

• Moisture and quality – High-moisture dates need careful cold storage, raising costs.
• Packaging and presentation – Vacuum-sealed trays or printed export cartons add to per-unit value.
• Season and demand cycle – Prices rise before Ramadan or Diwali, when demand spikes in importing countries.
• Export logistics – Refrigerated containers and customs documentation increase the final FOB cost.
• Currency and policy shifts – Fluctuating rial exchange rates or temporary export bans can alter pricing.

Mazafati Date Export Grading System (A, AA, B)

Mazafati dates from Iran are classified into export grades based on moisture content, size uniformity, appearance, and storage stability. This grading system is essential for importers because it directly affects pricing, shelf life, and target market suitability.

Grade AA Premium Export Quality

Grade AA represents the highest export standard of Mazafati dates. These dates are carefully selected for:

• Uniform large size
• Dark, glossy appearance
• High moisture consistency under controlled limits
• Soft texture with premium visual presentation

This grade is mainly used for retail packaging, luxury gift boxes, and high-end supermarkets in Europe, GCC, and Asia.

Grade A Standard Commercial Export

Grade A is the most commonly traded export category.

Key characteristics include:

• Slight variation in size
• Good sweetness and moisture balance
• Minor natural surface imperfections allowed
• Stable quality for bulk handling

This grade is widely used by wholesalers, food distributors, and bakery manufacturers.

Grade B Industrial Processing Quality

Grade B Mazafati dates are intended for food processing industries, not premium retail markets.

Typical features:

• Smaller or irregular size
• Higher variability in texture
• Lower visual grading standard
• Cost-efficient pricing

This grade is used in date syrup, pastes, bakery fillings, and industrial food production.

Export Grading Impact on Price

The grading system directly affects FOB pricing:

• AA Grade → highest price due to export selection process
• A Grade → balanced commercial pricing
• B Grade → lowest cost, industrial usage

Comparison with Other Date Varieties

Mazafati prices sit between the luxury Piarom (USD 2.5–3.2 per kg) and standard Sayer dates (USD 0.70–0.90 per kg). The key price premium comes from Mazafati’s perishable nature and labor-intensive handling. Importers seeking a balance of quality and affordability often choose Grade A Mazafati as an optimal trade-off.

read more: Leading Export Markets for Iranian Dates

Market Outlook and Trade Insights

Recent export data show India, Pakistan, and the UAE remain the top destinations for Iranian Mazafati dates. According to market observers, exports could rise by 10–15 percent in 2026 due to improved cold-chain logistics and higher yields in Bam. However, shipping congestion and temperature control challenges remain cost drivers.

Looking ahead, consistent supply, competitive exchange rates, and expanding certification (ISO, HACCP) are likely to stabilize export prices through mid-2026.