Dried Apricots
Sun-Dried Natural Apricots
Dried Figs
Pistachios
Hazelnuts
Dried Mulberries
Dates
Dried Sour Cherries
Raisins
Country Markets#France#European Union#Dried figs#Dried apricots#Retail
The French Market: Demand and Requirements for Dried Figs and Apricots
France has a deep-rooted culture of eating dried figs and apricots. The festive season and Provence’s traditional “13 desserts” table in particular drive seasonal demand.
Key takeaways
- Festive-season orders should be planned by late summer.
- Labels must be in French.
- Sea transit to Marseille-Fos is about 6–10 days.
- Aegean dried figs are highly sought after by French buyers.
Seasonal demand
Dried fruit consumption in France peaks in winter. In Provence, the “13 desserts” served on Christmas Eve include dried figs, raisins and nuts, so retailers place their orders in late summer.
| Product | Preferred form | Channel |
|---|---|---|
| Dried figs | Natural, lerida, garland | Retail, delicatessen |
| Dried apricots | Jumbo–Size 2, Extra | Premium retail |
| Raisins | Sultana, seedless | Bakery, breakfast |
Regulations and labelling
France applies EU rules. Labels must be in French, with “anhydride sulfureux et sulfites” highlighted as an allergen for sulphured apricots.
Gift and premium packs (boxes, window doypacks) create high value in French retail during the festive season.
Logistics
- Mersin → Marseille-Fos: about 6–10 days
- Mersin → Le Havre: about 12–15 days
- EUR.1 preferential duty
- CIF, CFR or DAP delivery
Sources & regulations
- Regulation (EU) 1169/2011 – food information to consumers
- Regulation (EU) 2023/915 – maximum levels for contaminants
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