Negev carrot export on the rise
Forty-four percent increase in export of carrots grown in western Negev kibbutzim recorded in 2007
The 13 kibbutzim that make up the Hevel Maon cooperative in the Western Negev desert have reported an increase of 44 percent in 2006/7 carrot exports.
The 11,500 tons of carrots, 24 percent of which are organic, are exported through agriculture products manufacturer and exporter Agrexco.
According to reports, most carrots from Israel are exported to Russia where it is impossible to grow carrots during the winter due to the climate.
In the past, Russia consumed refrigerated carrots during this season, but as a result of the increase in the standard of living and consumption, there is more of a demand for fresh carrots during winter.
Israeli exports provide an answer to this need.
Most of the carrots exported are sold in chain stores and markets in Moscow and St. Petersburg.
Reprinted with permission of The Israel Export and International Cooperation Institute
