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As a source of vitamins and minerals, vegetables and fruits are vital to human health. Seasonal fruits prevent people from sickness and have a spot in their diets. As a result, the fruits required by the body may change depending on the season. Turkey has a significant role in the production of numerous winter fruits. Thanks to its diverse climate and suitable geography, Turkey is among the top fruit producers in the world. With the arrival of winter, the freshest, naturally grown fruits take their place on the shelves.

Orange

Orange is a citrus fruit that is consumed both plain and in desserts. It is native to South East Asia and grows in both tropical and temperate areas. Turkey is the world's tenth-largest orange producer, with an annual output of 1.4 million tons. Oranges are winter fruits that ripen between October and November. Oranges are classified into four types based on their physical properties: blood orange, navel orange, acid-free orange, and sugar orange.

It is orange in color and contains vitamins C, A, B1, B2, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Orange's vitamins and antioxidants help to boost the immune system. Aside from that, its fiber content aids in cholesterol reduction and constipation relief. It enhances vascular and bone health and provides a sense of fullness. Furthermore, it protects against diseases such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, asthma, and pancreatic cancer.

Pomegranate

Throughout history, the pomegranate has been seen as a symbol of abundance and fertility. It is also one of the fruits that helps prevent cancer due to the antioxidants it contains. The pomegranate plant is primarily grown along Turkey's southern shores in Antalya, Muğla, and Mersin. Turkey ranks fourth in the world for pomegranate cultivation.

Pomegranates can be consumed on their own or with meals. Pomegranate boosts bodily resistance and is known to be effective against colds and flu. It also contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, C, and B2, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium.

Tangerine 

Tangerine is a citrus fruit that is obtainable in the winter. There are numerous types, such as Clementine, Tangor, Satsuma, and  Owari. It is commonly used in sweets, ice cream, and candies. Tangerines are grown primarily in temperate areas. Because of its mild climate, the Mediterranean is the center of tangerine production in Turkey. They are grown throughout the Aegean and Mediterranean regions, as well as in some sections of the Black Sea region.

Tangerine can help prevent cardiovascular disease by protecting the heart. Tangerine, like oranges, regulates cholesterol and blood pressure. It has a favorable effect on the digestive system and keeps you full for an extended period because of the fiber it contains. Tangerine’s white fibers should not be peeled off since it has numerous health benefits. These fibers, which have a cellulose structure, stimulate the digestive system and allow it to function properly.

Kiwi

Kiwi is a winter fruit that has a woody texture. The varieties of kiwi fruit, which are also highly diverse, are essential in terms of trade. World kiwifruit output has expanded fast, particularly since the Mediterranean countries began cultivating. Turkey ranks ninth in the world in kiwifruit cultivation. Because of their kiwi production potential, the Black Sea and Marmara regions stand out.

Kiwi, which is high in vitamins A, E, and C, is incredibly beneficial to the immune system. It is also helpful for upper respiratory tract infections such as the flu and the common cold. Kiwifruit, which has a sour taste, is high in fiber. This indicates that kiwi is high in antioxidants and vitamins. Kiwi, which has many benefits in weight loss, is abundant in diet lists.

Apple

The apple is a bright and red-colored fruit. Because of the numerous nutrients included in apples, they are referred to as superfoods. It comes in a variety of colors ranging from red to green. Since ancient times, the best quality and tasty apples have been grown in Turkey due to the compatibility of climatic circumstances. Turkey produces 460 different types of apples.

This fruit is also known for its medicinal properties. It is recommended to eat one or two apples per day for a healthier life. Apples are high in Vitamins A and C. It is also recognized for clearing the skin and whitening the tooth. When apples are eaten raw with their peels, they provide more benefits to the human body.

Banana 

Banana, which is consumed pleasantly in all seasons, is consumed most heavily during the winter. It stands out due to the fact that it may be consumed in a variety of ways. In recent years, Turkey has increased banana output, which has also been expanded through research and innovation studies. Turkey's banana production has surged by 139.4 percent in five years.

Vitamins and minerals found in bananas include vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin E, potassium, iron, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, and iodine. Banana is well-known for its digestive properties. Banana, one of the most popular winter fruits, is also beneficial for the common cold. It aids blood circulation and normalizes blood levels.

Grapefruit

Grapefruit is one of the most consumed winter fruits. It is a type of citrus fruit native to South East Asia. Grapefruit is produced for the culinary industry, and flowers and shells are also used in the cosmetics industry. 96% of Grapefruit is grown in the Çukurova Region of Turkey.

It has a more sour taste than other citrus fruits. The interior is similar to orange; however, it is juicier. Grapefruit is one of the most preferred fruits due to its immunity-strengthening feature. Similar to other citrus fruits, it is good for the cold. Grapefruit, which has a very low-calorie ratio, is a rich fruit-in-fiber ratio. It contains abundant vitamins A, and C, and minerals such as phosphorus and potassium.

Winter fruits help to boost the immune system. Vitamin C consumption, particularly in the winter, has a very protective effect by improving the body's resistance. Due to weather conditions, geographical position, and production circumstances, Turkey is one of the world's major fruit producers. Turkey, with its varied climates and four seasons, is an excellent alternative for importing high-quality, environmentally friendly fruits.

Turkey has always maintained a significant position in the manufacture of electronic goods. In terms of implementing new technologies brought about by time and creating high-quality products, it is also in demand in the international market. Turkey is growing every year, particularly in terms of exporting and producing electric heaters. Turkey thus plays a crucial role in the development of electric heaters.

If they are not made from high-quality materials or the appropriate controls are not performed, electric heaters can be highly harmful. Turkey has a long history in the field of electronics, which is one of the main reasons why electric heaters are favored there. As a result, their goods are dependable and of great quality. More than 60 nations are recipients of Turkish electric heater exports. The skilled exporters and manufacturers in Turkey stay current with technology daily. Turkish heaters provide wintertime home heating in this manner throughout the world.

What are Electric Heater Types?

Electric heaters swiftly and efficiently warm the air. The application areas for electric heaters have increased, and so have their features. Electric heaters come in a variety of sizes, forms, and models. This makes it suitable for usage in a variety of settings, including cafes, residences, companies, schools, and hospitals.

Electric heaters with gradually adjustable degrees are also available, and customers can quickly change the heat setting to suit their tastes. Electric heaters are separated into many varieties. Radiator, fan, and infrared heaters are the three most popular types of electric heaters.

Fan Heater

The most affordable heaters, known as fan heaters, warm the air around them. Given that it is a straightforward system with few complications, it provides a cost-efficient and practical solution. It delivers quick heating without requiring a lot of electricity. Additionally, it is frequently chosen because it takes up less room.

Radiator Heater

Electric heaters that resemble heater cores are known as radiator heaters. The fact that oil radiator heaters are electrical and produce heat as a result of the oil circulating in the system is the main distinction between them and central heating cores.

Although radiator heaters are a highly useful device, some considerations must be made, as with any electrical product. The importance of engine power, heating area, and radiator heater coverage should be noted first. In addition to these characteristics, the product's quality is also influenced by the caliber of the materials utilized to create it. Radiators with an aluminum coating are typically thought to be higher quality and more useful. In addition to these technological specifics, radiator heaters' positive attributes are also influential in consumer preference.

Infrared Heater

By releasing infrared rays, an infrared heater generates heat. The name of this type of heater comes from how it functions. However, instead of heating the air by evenly distributing it, the heater directs the heat to the nearest place where it will contact. Infrared heaters are preferred in places like small rooms, cellars, and balconies because of this. Particularly in cafes' outdoor spaces and winter gardens, it is quite prevalent.

Additionally, optional pedestal models and wall mounting are offered. The most frequent error in this situation is to install these heaters so that heat is radiated from top to bottom. The best way to use an infrared heater is to set it up to warm the feet or provide heat from the bottom up.

Whichever type of heater is preferred, it is important to check the electricity usage rate. Each type of heater produced in Turkey is a heater whose all stages have been completed and tested. As Turkish origin, we supply heaters to many countries from Turkey to the world. If you want to reach both high-quality and affordable heaters, please contact us.

Why Has the Demand for Electric Heaters Increased?

For years, electric heaters have been every home's protection against cold. Electric heaters are preferred, especially in houses that do not have a natural gas infrastructure, as they offer the convenience of heating more quickly. Although there is electric heater production in almost every city in Turkey, Kayseri and Trabzon are on the list as the most comprehensive cities producing heaters. So why is Turkey preferred for heaters?

Manufacturers of electric stoves in the northern Turkish province of Trabzon have increased their output by twofold to fulfill demand from Europe, where natural gas shortages are anticipated for the upcoming winter. The world is likely to see natural gas outages due to political unrest or a lack of available energy sources. Countries require electric heaters to enjoy a comfortable winter. Naturally, Turkey ranks among the most desired nations. The need for heaters has increased, which are made with both high-quality materials and energy efficiency in mind.

Products bearing the CE mark and meeting EU requirements are among the first to gain popularity outside. Because reliability is extremely important, particularly for electrical equipment. In addition to Trabzon producers who value precision in their work, Kayseri producers have increased output by a factor of two. Demand for heaters from Turkey is expected to rise in 2023.

Supplying the Suitable Heaters

Turkish exporters are attempting to produce their goods by the motto, the ideal manufacturer reaches the ideal population. This shows once again how important Turkey is in the export of electric heaters. Because if the wrong product is introduced there, it will reverberate incorrectly in the market and pose serious threats to both the product's users and its manufacturer.

Turkey's position is further strengthened by the timely and correct supply of the best-manufactured goods to the importers. Therefore, eligible items should be created and distributed by appropriate businesses. Products that meet EU criteria gain even more extensive networks.

As Turkish Goods, we deliver products from reliable suppliers, especially qualified manufacturers, everywhere. We deliver the right products at the promised time. You can browse our website to reach the heaters you want reliably in line with the demands.

Turkey is making history as a country that is growing and developing its strategies. It develops certain strategies both to further its growth in the local market and increase its prestige in the foreign market. The Turkish government develops its policies in line with the plans. In particular, Turkey aims for economic and macroeconomic development of the country with its five-year development plans.

The development plan is a document that the Turkish government has been creating since 1963. The goal is advancing in vital areas like the economy, health, education, transportation, social security, and justice while also establishing public sector policy.

What is Turkey's 11th Development Plan?

We can define the 11th Development Plan as an announcement for the period between 2019 to 2023. In this way, growth is made throughout the nation, even in the management of the nation, by the plans. The Eleventh Development Plan was created using a participatory approach. It was done with the help of numerous participants from all spheres of society as well as state institutions and organizations, particularly ministries. By doing this, it is hoped to establish a nation that meets the objectives and expectations of all groups as well as general expectations. Problems were addressed jointly and a long-term solution focus was sought to be established.

The 11th Development Plan is concentrated on guaranteeing increased productivity and competitiveness across all industries. Focus is placed on having a strong and stable economy, competitive production and efficiency, qualified workers, a robust society, and livable cities. It also includes the development axes of democratization, effective governance, a sustainable environment, and the rule of law. It aims to actualize the vision of "Turkey that produces more value, shares more equally, is stronger and affluent" by these five axes. Using this strategy, in the manufacturing sector, is intended to boost local output and quicken industrialization, particularly in the identified priority industries.

In addition to the main industries, the growth plan identified agriculture, tourism, and the military industry as important development areas. The country's future material and moral investments are therefore covered by the development plan.

Stable and Strong Economy

The Eleventh Development Plan's goals have been established in the context of a consistent export-based growth model that prioritizes productivity and places a significant emphasis on the industrial sector. By maintaining excellent policy coordination in economic management, the plan period aims to promote harmony between monetary, fiscal, and income policies. A completely competitive free market is supported by the expansion of the business and investment environment, which also eliminates market failures. Although numerous factors contribute to a healthy and robust economy, boosting regional output and consumption stands out.

 Since Turkey is a strong country in terms of production, especially in agriculture, it is quite normal for production and export items to be adorned with high expectations within the framework of the new workforce.

In this context, there will also be an increase in the proportion of high-value-added, highly technological products in exports. The proportion of high-tech sectors in overall exports will rise from 3.2 percent to 5.8 percent, while the proportion of medium-high technology industries would rise from 37.9 percent to 46.3 percent.

The development plan also includes the creation of fresh exporter information platforms. The creation of a computerized "Easy Export Platform" with complete and current data will allow exporters to closely monitor global trade statistics and learn about government assistance programs, potential goods and markets, and buyer country customs. This platform was developed, studies were done, and the tracking system for exporters was made easier. The proposal also calls for the creation and ongoing maintenance of a database that contains details on the businesses that take part in trade delegations abroad as well as details about the foreign businesses contacted.

Therefore, for an active economy, Turkey has included an approach that increases its digitalized and informative activities in the plan and has put it into practice.

Development at the Macroeconomic Level

Growth prospects in many nations are significantly impacted by global economic and political uncertainty. Some industrialized nations that sought to promote economic activity after the global financial crisis started the process of normalizing their currencies. According to projections, the global unemployment rate will remain around 5% over the 2019–2023 time frame. All nations have made significant macroeconomic employment-related moves, assuming we are in the year 2022. In terms of politics, Turkey continues to work on employment. Particularly, there are more and more employment developments in agriculture, animal husbandry, and tourism.

Despite a little decline in unemployment rates as a result of the post-crisis measures, labor productivity has slowed down in several nations over the past ten years. Low real pay increases are a result of sluggish productivity growth, which also has a limited impact on demand and growth. Independent regulatory and supervisory institutions in the markets will continue to work to maintain the efficiency of the market within the framework of predictability and transparency. A development plan has been established to improve the regulatory and supervisory role of the state.

Macroeconomic success is expected within the framework of steps toward increasing technological capacity, strengthening institutional capacity, and developing human capital. In the foreign market and external factors, Turkey has tried to put its development plan into practice in every aspect, aiming to ensure satisfaction on a local basis, as well as the breakthroughs that will increase its prestige. Although the first four years of the 5-year plan are over, it continues all kinds of work.

What is the Turkish Exports Strategy for 2023?

The "2023 Turkish Export Strategy" was started in 2009 by the Ministry of Economy, but is now also supported by the Turkish Exporters Assembly and the Ministry of Commerce. The main goal of this plan is to increase Turkey's economy to one of the top 10 in the world by 2023 and gain a 1.5% share of global trade. Additionally, it is anticipated that in 2023, the export/import ratio would be 80%.

Instead of concentrating on short-term objectives, this strategy adopts a long-term perspective. To accomplish long-term objectives, the new plan includes both production and export components. Turkey's export strategy works in this direction by developing a production schedule for export performance. The realization of new investments in high-tech industries and the shifting of manufacturing from low-tech sectors to high-value-added areas are the primary components of this approach.

Turkey's Plan to Accomplish Goals

In order to accomplish these goals, Turkey has developed some significant plans, including the following:

• To implement initiatives aimed at enhancing R&D and global competitiveness in order to boost sectoral export capability,
• Implementation of a sectoral and country-based export diversification strategy,
• Increasing the number of national delegations participating in sectoral trade missions, buying missions, and international trade fairs,
• Improving SMEs' export capabilities,
• Concentrating business efforts on niche markets,
• To establish Istanbul as a major global hub for trade, fairs, and fashion,
• To boost the presence of Turkish brands on a worldwide scale,
• Providing crucial export inputs,
• Creating sectoral clusters to boost one's competitiveness in global marketplaces,
• Improving Turkey's logistical infrastructure,
• Creating new export financing instruments.

As a result, production, technology, and export are seen as the most important development steps in both the Development Plan and the 2023 Strategy Plan. The biggest reason for this is that the development of individuals and therefore countries, who crown knowledge with production, has always been more robust.

Supporting exports in every aspect, Turkish Goods is one of the brands that provide supplies in line with these plans. Like Turkey, which directs the service in the right way, Turkish Goods is on its way to becoming a brand that directs both exporters and importers.

Transportation is the movement of an object or a person from one location to another. People generally regard transportation as a necessity. As technology advances, transportation modes become increasingly diverse. The four modes of transportation include land transportation, sea transportation, air transportation, and rail transportation.

Each form of transportation demands a particular technological solution, whereas others necessitate a different environment. Each method of transportation has its own infrastructure, vehicles, operators, and processes. In this article, we are discussing the advantages of each mode of transport.

Advantages of Land Transportation

Road transport is one of the most commonly used modes of transportation in the logistics industry due to its extensive road network. Deliveries can be made all around the world using this method of transport. Furthermore, lower-cost infrastructure investment is required. Additionally, because of the infrastructure and geographical aspects, sea, air, and train transportation cannot always offer transit to the targeted area. In such a situation, road transportation can serve as a complement.

Regardless of the time and place, loading and unloading are possible. It is one of the most preferred transportation modes in the world with the advantage of leaving loads on more than one route. Road transport is known for being flexible and allows door-to-door transport. This mode is extremely advantageous for loads that need to be delivered in a short time.

The loads are fused, reducing the possibility of breaking, distortion, and load loss. Road transport has an economic advantage since it allows efficient transportation in a short period of time. Other than loading and unloading, other operations are kept to a minimum, and expenses are minimized. Furthermore, the packaging fee is cheaper than other modes of transport.

Loads are delivered to locations that cannot be accessible by water or air transportation. It is important in transferring loads of various volumes, in addition to small loads. For these reasons, it is one of the most popular modes of transportation in the world.

Advantages of Sea Transportation

Sea freight is one of the oldest known modes of transport. It can provide delivery to overseas countries and various port cities. Among the advantages provided by this mode of transport, there are also privileges such as environmentally friendly shipment, secured delivery, and affordable cost.

In addition to containers, bulk goods and general cargo are transported via sea transportation. One of the most well-known benefits of sea transport is security. International sea transport ensures that the products arrive safely at the appointed port. Moreover, the equipment utilized in this transportation, such as crates, pallets, and containers, is resistant to external conditions.

One of the other features of sea transportation, which is particularly significant for economic transactions all over the world, is that it allows for the easy transportation of very large amounts of goods. In other words, it is the most cost-effective method of delivering relatively larger loads across distant locations.

Because of its minimal carbon footprint, sea shipping stands out as an ecologically friendly mode of transportation. Affordability can be also cited as an important advantage in sea transport. The absence of various border checkpoints, road maintenance, and crossings which might slow down the shipping process contributes to the speed of this mode of transportation. It is the earliest known and most well-established method of transportation; hence, it is a rapidly developing and growing sector.

Advantages of Air Transportation

Air transport is the process of flying passengers and goods from one location to another using aircraft, particularly airplanes. Air travel provides benefits in terms of speed and safety. It is commonly used in transcontinental transportation operations.

Direct routes are utilized in air transport. As a result, the system is remarkably quick and effective. Mostly all long-distance passenger travels in the modern world are performed by air. Because there are so many options for air freight, costs are also quite adjustable.

It is an appropriate mode of transportation for costly, potentially perishable goods and commodities with expiry dates. Air freight contributes to the preservation of goods’ market value. It is preferred for cargoes that require immediate delivery, such as medications, vaccinations, and medical supplies. Small-volume loads can be transported in conjunction with large-volume loads.

It can frequently reach regions where other modes of transportation cannot. Air freight also enables the safe delivery of sensitive loads. It follows procedures that make customs procedures easier and has a well-functioning logistics system. To summarize, air travel is a convenient and high-quality choice.

Advantages of Rail Transportation

Railway transportation, which has a key place in the logistics industry, realizes an important part of international trade with its varied advantages. Strict supervision and monitoring procedures ensure the safety of the railways. Guaranteeing the shipments eliminates the risk of theft, damage, or loss. It is the most physically and financially suitable mode of transportation for large tonnage and bulky loads. Furthermore, it provides the option of year-round transportation at fixed pricing.

Because of the minimal impact of poor weather, rail transport is available throughout the year. It is also unique in that it is the only transportation method that is not impacted by weather conditions. Because it is constructed with Block Trains, it enables continuous transit. As a result, rail transit is faster than marine transport. Transactions and border waits are also kept to a minimum.

Finally, the most significant advantage of railway transportation is that it is environmentally friendly. According to all forms of transportation, it is the most ecologically beneficial in terms of energy consumption. It is a forerunner in the battle against noise pollution. The roadway reduces traffic congestion and is safer than other modes of transportation. In advanced nations, railways can be considered as one of the most significant means of transportation.

Many kinds of transportation are actively employed for passenger and freight transit around the world. Transportation is a critical factor that influences a country's level of development. Each mode has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. The mode of transportation can be determined by the type and weight of the cargo to be transported, as well as by additional details.

Grapefruit is a type of fruit belonging to the Citrus family. The fruit has a bitter-sour taste and is red and orange. Grapefruit is a tropical and juicy fruit rich in minerals and vitamins. Like all other citrus fruits, grapefruit is suitable for growing in warm climates. Growing grapefruit in regions where the air temperature drops below -9 degrees is impossible. There are varieties of grapefruit in different sizes, colors, and flavors. There are about 20 varieties of grapefruit that are grown and most consumed in the world.

Grapefruit begins to be harvested in October and November and is a healthy citrus fruit most consumed in winter. So which countries grow this healthy and delicious fruit and which countries export it? In this article, we will talk about the answers to these questions. Let's dive into the leading countries in grapefruit export together.

All About Grapefruit

Citrus fruits are fruits of different types and flavors. In addition, citrus fruits are a group of fruits that are frequently consumed around the world due to their known positive effects on health and nutrition. Grapefruit is a fruit belonging to the citrus family. Like other citrus fruits, this fruit is used in many areas, including other food industries. Grapefruit is consumed fresh, processed, and used as a raw material for many by-products. Examples are grapefruit juice, marmalade, and canned foods. Grapefruit is a fruit that is also used in the chemical industry. Products such as perfume, shampoo, and soap are produced from the volatile fatty acids of grapefruit.

Benefits of Grapefruit

Grapefruit is a fruit rich in vitamin C.  In this way, the consumption of grapefruit strengthens the immune system. Besides, the fruit acts as an antioxidant and maintains skin health. It contains calcium, iron, and magnesium minerals. Grapefruit is a fruit that should be consumed to protect and strengthen the immune system during the cold winter months.

Most Consumed Types of Grapefruit

There are dozens of varieties of grapefruit, and these varieties differ from each other in terms of color and taste.

Pink Grapefruit

Pink grapefruit has a sour and sweet flavor. In addition, pink grapefruit is the tastiest type of grapefruit. It is the most preferred grapefruit variety for fresh consumption and for making grapefruit juice.

Red Grapefruit

The redder the color of a grapefruit, the sweeter it is. Red grapefruits are an excellent source of lycopene and beta-carotene.

White Grapefruit

White grapefruits have a sour taste but are not too bitter. This type of grapefruit has the most aromatic smell. It has a uniquely beautiful scent. In particular, it is used to make shampoos and perfumes.

Top Grapefruit Exporting Countries

In the 2020-2021 agricultural season, approximately 6.7 million tons of grapefruit were produced around the world. In the 2021/2022 period, grapefruit production is estimated to be about 6.96 million tons. 

According to the data for 2021, the country that exported the most grapefruit in the world was South Africa. The country that produced the most grapefruit was China. In the same year, the country that imported the most grapefruit was the Netherlands. The leading grapefruit-exporting countries worldwide are South Africa, Turkey, China, and Israel, The USA. Let's take a closer look.

South Africa

According to the current data shared by the USDA, South Africa produced 351.043 tons of grapefruit in the 2020/2021 season. According to the estimated data of the USDA, South Africa is expected to produce 380,000 tons of grapefruit in the 2021/2022 season.

South Africa ranks first in grapefruit exports by increasing its grapefruit export every year in the last ten years. In 2021, South Africa exported $246.1 million worth of grapefruit. Also, the countries that South Africa exports the most grapefruit to are the EU, China, Japan, Russia, and the United Kingdom, respectively. In 2021, South Africa exported about 85,000 tons of grapefruit to the EU market. The second largest grapefruit market in South Africa is China. South Africa exported 50,000 tons of grapefruit to China in 2020. Besides, in 2021, a significant increase was observed in the export figures. In 2021, South Africa exported 76,000 tons of grapefruit to China, increasing its exports by 52%.

Turkey

Turkey is among the leading countries in grapefruit production and export. In 2021, 249,000 tons of grapefruit were produced in Turkey. The provinces where grapefruit is produced the most are Adana, Mersin, Hatay, and Muğla, respectively. In 2021, Turkey exported 148,869 tons of grapefruit to different countries of the world. The countries to which Turkey exports the most grapefruit are Russia, Poland, Ukraine, Romania, and Bulgaria, respectively. 47,155 tons of grapefruit were exported to Russia and 17,203 tons of grapefruit to Poland from Turkey in 2021.

China

China met 24% of grapefruit exports worldwide in 2021. In the agricultural season 2021/2022, China exported 200 thousand tons of grapefruit. In addition, China received 151 million dollars in foreign currency from grapefruit exports. Russia is the country that imports the most grapefruit from China.

Israel 

The Mediterranean climate dominates in the northern part of Israel. Grapefruit is produced in the northern region, which has hot summers and mild winters. Israel is among the leading countries in the world in grapefruit exports. In the 2020/2022 agricultural season, Israel met 8% of world grapefruit exports. In the same season, Israel exported 63 thousand tons of grapefruit. Also, Israel obtained $65.8 million in foreign exchange from these exports.

United States of America

According to data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the USA is one of the world's largest producers and exporters of fresh grapefruit. In the USA, grapefruit is grown in Florida, Arizona, California, and Texas. Besides, pink grapefruit is the most popular type of grapefruit grown in the USA. In 2021, the USA exported 35 thousand tons of grapefruit to the world. The USA met 3% of world grapefruit exports in 2021.

EXW (or Ex Works) represents the minimum obligation for the seller. Its only obligation is to make the goods packaged for export available to the buyer (usually at the seller's premises) and to provide a commercial invoice. It is therefore the buyer who will bear all the costs and risks associated with the delivery of the goods between seller and buyer, such as the transport, customs, and insurance. 

The International Chamber of Commerce, responsible for establishing the various Incoterms, considers the EXW commercial typology as that in which the object of a commercial economic operation must be collected at a point designated by the seller.

The meaning of its acronym explains how this type of incoterm is developed. The seller stores his products in a specific place, such as warehouses, points of sale, or directly at the factory or factory so that the seller can collect them. In a sense, an EXW assumes that so many of the costs associated with the sale are borne by the buying agent. In other words, the risk of the operation rests mainly on this part of the business transaction. This means that it is a common export option among export agents with little means or of smaller size, as in the case of SMEs.

Basic Obligations of an EXW-Type Trade Agreement

The obligations of the buyer under the Ex Works transport rules are multiple: they include everything relating to the transport of goods and the associated risks. This includes the following activities:

• Organization of means of transport and routing to the various points of the journey
• Loading of the goods on board the vehicle(s)
• Support for all customs formalities and associated taxes
• Obtaining the necessary export and import licenses and authorizations
• Assumption of transport risks (delays, losses, thefts, damages)
• Unloading of the goods at the final destination

In contrast, here are the obligations of the seller:

• Packaging and labeling of goods
• Provision of goods

We can therefore consider EXW as the opposite of the incoterm DDP (Delivery, duty paid). In a contract negotiated under the DDP, the seller bears the maximum responsibility, while the buyer only manages the unloading of the goods at the agreed place. Responsibilities are reversed.

The Advantages of Transport by Ex Works

EXW is the preferred option for many companies appealed by its apparent promise of ease. What are the advantages of EXW?

Minimum Obligation

The absence of responsibilities plays a big role in the popularity of EXW. Under this incoterm, the seller hardly takes care of anything, not even customs formalities: his only task is to make the goods available to the buyer, often at the exit of his own premises. Apart from packing (and occasionally loading onto the vehicle, if both parties so agree), the supplier does not have to put in any effort.

Excellent Visibility

For the buyer, EXW also has certain advantages: transport and formalities being his responsibility, he has total visibility on the delivery process. He can therefore better control the goods and the progress of their delivery. It also ensures that the supplier does not increase its local costs or add a margin to the delivery costs.

When Should You Avoid It?

EXW perhaps seems like an easy option for the supplier, yet it is actually quite risky. Here are the main problems that can occur:

Dependence On the Buyer

The supplier has very few obligations – but that means they have no visibility into the shipping process. He does not control customs formalities or the choice of customs representative and does not have the slightest authority vis-à-vis the forwarding agent. Whatever the unexpected, it is entirely dependent on the buyer. Therefore, the EXW incoterm is not really suitable for export.

Documentation Missing

In France, exporters tend to invoice duty-free and appear as exporters on the Single Administrative Document (SAD). However, a contract negotiated with the EXW incoterm bars access to customs procedures, which means that the exporter does not automatically recover the SAD. Without this document, tax-free invoicing is automatically invalidated. With EXW, it therefore becomes much more complicated to obtain proof that the goods have indeed left the territory.

Customs Litigation

The foreign buyer is probably not very familiar with the regulations of the country of export. This increases the chances of producing an incorrect or insufficient export declaration. The exporter is held responsible in the event of non-compliance with the regulations. If he lacks specific authorization, he is the one who faces penalties – penalties that can include the loss of his export privileges. For this reason, the ICC reserves EXW for national and regional exchanges.

Not Being Able to Get Payment

Another scenario: the payment of a letter of credit requires a bill of lading. This bill of lading can only be provided by the freight forwarder. However, the freight forwarder has no obligation to the seller, since he was hired by the buyer. If the documents provided are incorrect or incomplete, the seller has no recourse to have them modified. This can lead the bank to refuse payment of the letter of credit.

Fierce Competition

Forcing the buyer to take care of customs formalities, transport and insurance mean that the supplier's business will seem much less attractive to customers, especially if other companies in the same market negotiate their contracts with more advantageous terms - such as FCA or DDP, which impose a more relevant distribution of responsibilities. 

Alternatives to EXW: Should You Choose FOB or FCA Instead?

The EXW incoterm, therefore, makes the seller assume a lot of risk despite the apparent absence of obligations and lends itself more to national or regional exchanges. Which alternative to turn to for export? This obviously depends on the context, your products, your type of business, and the countries concerned. However, two options, in particular, can be retained: FOB and FCA.

FCA

FCA (Free Carrier Alongside) means free carrier. Under this incoterm, responsibilities are better shared. The supplier is responsible for customs clearance and the transport of the goods to the port of embarkation. He must provide the buyer with all the necessary documentation for the export, including authorizations and licenses for specific products.

The FCA incoterm is more advantageous for the seller than the EXW because it allows him to manage the customs formalities of his country himself and avoid problems of non-compliance with exports. In addition, the seller can also benefit from an exemption from VAT. The FCA Incoterm is also very flexible regarding the delivery address. This is why it is officially recommended by the ICC instead of EXW for exports.

FOB

The incoterm FOB (Free on Board) means “free on board” and applies exclusively to transport by inland waterway or sea. It is very similar to FCA, with some nuances. Where FCA considers the goods delivered as soon as the seller has loaded them onto the means of transport chosen by the buyer, FOB considers them delivered once loaded on board the specified vessel.

The organization of transport and the assumption of costs and associated risks are the responsibility of the buyer. As with the FCA, it is the seller who takes responsibility for the clearance of goods for export. FOB is one of the most used in international trade. If you export by sea, it is a wise choice that will allow you to avoid customs disputes.