Exporting Citrus to Iraq: The Importance of Leaf-On Presentation for Freshness

In target export markets, especially Iraq, the visual appearance of produce plays a decisive role in the purchasing decisions of wholesalers. For Iraqi consumers and traders, the presence of leaves on oranges and tangerines serves as proof of freshness and direct harvesting from the tree. This visual characteristic conveys a message of health and quality that distinguishes the fruit from mass-industrial methods and long-term cold storage.

Leaf-On Harvesting and Supply Techniques

At Zaghmarz, we have adopted a specific approach for markets that prioritize visual freshness. During harvest, fruits are not pulled from the branches; instead, our team uses professional scissors to remove the fruit along with its stem and leaves. This method prevents damage to the fruit tissue at the stem point and helps maintain its natural appearance. Supplying produce with leaves attached is one of our primary methods for meeting the needs of buyers in neighboring markets.

Specialized Sorting and Preparation

All stages of shipment preparation, including sorting and packaging, are conducted within our own facilities using our own equipment. This ensures that the cargo is not outsourced to third parties for preparation. Depending on the preferences of the destination market and phytosanitary regulations, we can apply food-grade wax to reduce moisture loss during long transit times, or perform professional degreening for early-harvested products. All these details are finalized with the buyer prior to loading.

Packaging and Cargo Tracking

Our standard packaging consists of single-use plastic crates that do not require return. If the buyer requires carton packaging, this can be fulfilled upon request. To ensure transparency, every shipment is assigned a unique tracking code that is printed on the packaging and included on the invoice. This code (formatted as ZF-[Orchard Code]-[Harvest Date YYMMDD]-[Shipment Number]) allows the buyer to track the harvest date and the details of the origin orchard.

Starting a Partnership

If you would like to know the current status of our products and their availability, we suggest viewing our Harvest Calendar. We adjust the calibre (weight per fruit) and packaging type precisely to your specified requirements. To receive further details and coordinate an export order, please complete the Information Request form so our sales team can contact you.