Tunisia ranked 9th in the world for date production, with 386,400 tons harvested in 2023, maintaining its reputation for high-quality dates, particularly the prized Deglet Nour variety.
Global date production remains heavily concentrated in Arab countries, where favorable climates, widely cultivated traditional varieties, and desert-adapted irrigation systems dominate the sector.
According to the latest data from World Population Review, most production is concentrated in the Middle East and North Africa.
Egypt leads globally, producing a record 1.9 million tons in 2023. Saudi Arabia follows with 1.6 million tons from 157,400 hectares, while Algeria ranks third with 1.3 million tons and the largest palm groves at 179,200 hectares.
Other top producers include Iraq (5th, 635,900 tons), combining historic groves with mechanization; Pakistan (6th, 503,800 tons), a major exporter to the Middle East and Europe; Sudan (7th, 442,700 tons), known for dense groves and specialized varieties; and Oman (8th, 394,900 tons), benefiting from favorable climate and export focus.
Rounding out the top 10, the United Arab Emirates produces 329,400 tons, emphasizing premium varieties and innovative irrigation to serve European and Asian markets.
