Exhibiting at Foodex Japan 2025

American Date Industry Export Trade Association (ADIETA)

The American Date Industry Export Trade Association (ADIETA) is a nonprofit trade organization dedicated to promoting and expanding the export of American-grown dates to global markets. Based in Coachella, California, the association represents leading date producers, packers, and exporters across the United States, facilitating trade, market access, and regulatory compliance for the industry.

Mission and Core Objectives

ADIETA was established to support the growth and competitiveness of the U.S. date industry by:

• Expanding export opportunities through international trade promotion.
• Ensuring regulatory compliance with global food safety and agricultural standards.
• Enhancing industry collaboration among growers, processors, and exporters.
• Educating global markets on the nutritional and culinary benefits of American dates.

The U.S. Date Industry: Market Position and Strengths

The United States, particularly California and Arizona, is a major producer of premium Medjool and Deglet Noor dates. The country's date production is centered in Coachella Valley, California, which accounts for over 90% of domestic date production.

Key Industry Data:

• Annual U.S. Date Production: Over 60,000 metric tons.
• Export Volume: The U.S. exports more than 20,000 metric tons of dates annually.
• Top Export Markets: Canada, the European Union, the Middle East, and Asia.
• Economic Impact: The U.S. date industry contributes over $100 million annually to the national economy.

U.S. Date Products and Export Categories

ADIETA represents producers offering a wide range of date varieties and value-added products, including:

• Medjool Dates – Known for their large size, soft texture, and natural sweetness.
• Deglet Noor Dates – Semi-dry dates with a firm texture, ideal for cooking and baking.
• Pitted Dates – Convenient, ready-to-eat options for consumers and manufacturers.
• Date Paste and Syrup – Used in food processing, confectionery, and beverages.
• Organic Dates – Certified organic products meeting USDA organic standards.

Market Growth and Global Demand

The global date market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.2% from 2023 to 2028, driven by increasing demand for natural sweeteners, plant-based nutrition, and functional foods. The U.S. date industry, supported by ADIETA, is well-positioned to capture market share due to its high-quality production standards and superior agricultural practices.

Trade Support and Regulatory Compliance

ADIETA helps U.S. date exporters navigate international trade barriers and ensure compliance with key regulatory frameworks, such as:

• U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Standards – Quality control and grading requirements.
• Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) Certification – Compliance with international food safety protocols.
• Organic and Halal Certifications – Enabling entry into diverse global markets.
• Customs and Trade Agreements – Facilitating smoother export processes.

Target Market and Consumer Segments

ADIETA's efforts focus on expanding date consumption and trade partnerships within:

• Retail Markets – Supermarkets, organic stores, and health food outlets.
• Foodservice Industry – Restaurants, bakeries, and catering services.
• Nutraceutical and Functional Food Sectors – Manufacturers of natural sweeteners, energy bars, and plant-based nutrition.
• Wholesale Distributors – Bulk suppliers serving international markets.

Achievements and Industry Contributions

• Increased U.S. Date Exports – U.S. date exports have grown by 30% over the past decade.
• Strategic Market Expansion – Entered high-demand regions such as China and Southeast Asia.
• Consumer Awareness Campaigns – Promoting the health benefits of dates through global outreach.
• Industry Collaboration – Strengthened partnerships between U.S. date growers and international buyers.

Conclusion

The American Date Industry Export Trade Association (ADIETA) plays a vital role in expanding the global footprint of U.S.-grown dates, ensuring that American date producers can meet rising international demand while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and sustainability. As the global appetite for natural, nutrient-rich foods grows, ADIETA continues to lead the charge in promoting American dates as a premium product worldwide.