author(s)
Ahmed R Al-Hassan, Mariam F Al-Balooshi and Khaled M. El-Sharabi

abstract
Date palm present juice and Gur represent two of the most widely consumed traditional sweeteners, offering significant nutritional, economic, and export‐oriented value in developing regions. The global preference for minimally processed and plant-derived sweeteners has increased sharply over the last decade, driven by rising health awareness and demand for sustainable food systems. In this context, present juice and Gur obtained from Phoenix dactylifera possess high market relevance because of their rich mineral composition, natural flavor profile, and lower environmental footprint compared to refined sugar. The export potential of date palm derivatives has expanded particularly in South Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Africa, where smallholder producers rely on these products as a key source of livelihood. However, despite their intrinsic advantages, these sweeteners face several barriers to global competitiveness, including inconsistency in processing methods, lack of standardized quality grading, limited shelf-life, supply chain inefficiencies, and low technological adoption among producers. The present research examines the market competitiveness and export prospects of date palm present juice and Gur by evaluating historical production data, international trade patterns, consumer trends, and comparative advantages relative to commercial sweeteners. It synthesizes findings from pre-2024 literature to identify the structural, economic, and policy determinants influencing market performance. The analysis demonstrates that strong consumer preference for natural and chemical-free sweeteners provides considerable opportunities for export growth, especially when supported by improved processing technologies, certification standards, and cold-chain innovation. Furthermore, the research emphasizes the need for capacity building among rural producers and the adoption of uniform quality protocols to strengthen competitiveness in global markets. The findings highlight strategic pathways for transforming date palm sweetener products into internationally viable commodities that can benefit smallholder farming communities and contribute to sustainable agri-food value chains.