Summer-fruit picking in plantations in the northern region in Israel is at a complete standstill, in view of the continuous confrontations along the northern Israeli-Lebanese border line.
The Thai Embassy in Israel notified all Thai workers to abstain from going to work in these regions. Among the fruit plantations that were damaged are mango, peaches, nectarines, plums, grapes and apples.
The bulk of the summer fruit crop is slated for the local market and small quantities are sent for export.
Amos Orr of Agrexco UK says the hostilities have not affected sendings.
“So far there has no been any affect on supplies, in fact it’s almost to the contrary as in some cases we have surpluses," said Orr. "The only products grown in the north are deciduous - plums and mangoes and again there are no shortages. Our salad items are grown to the south which has not been affected and the first mangoes, from the Sea of Galilee area will be shipped on July 20, earlier than anticipated.
“Our ports are open and we have no logistical problems - vessels sailing as scheduled and we have no change in our plans of operation or commitment to our customers.”
