$1 Million Allocated to Support Lebanese Apple Exports
Agriculture Minister Nizar Hani thanked President Joseph Aoun for his ongoing support for Lebanon’s agricultural sector and efforts to facilitate apple exports, welcoming a $1 million initiative by CMA CGM Chairman and CEO Rodolphe Saadé in response to Aoun’s request.
Hani said the initiative provides discounted refrigerated container shipping rates through CMA CGM to several Arab ports, including East Port Said in Egypt, Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, and Tripoli, Misrata and Benghazi in Libya.
The measure aims to reduce exporters’ logistics costs and strengthen the competitiveness of Lebanese apples in regional markets.
Hani said the initiative supports the Agriculture Ministry’s 2026 apple marketing roadmap, which targets exports of at least 100,000 tons by expanding foreign markets, strengthening agricultural and economic diplomacy, and improving export and transport mechanisms.
He praised Saadé and CMA CGM for demonstrating the potential of public-private cooperation to support Lebanese farmers and productive sectors.
The minister reaffirmed his commitment to expanding export opportunities, reducing costs and strengthening agriculture’s contribution to food security and sustainable economic development.
