October 7 and the Arba Minim Industry: A View from the Frontlines

Approximately 70-80% of the Arba Minim used worldwide for festival of Sukkot are grown in Israel. This includes the majority of etrogim and a significant portion of lulavim, hadassim, and aravos. Israel's climate and agricultural expertise make it a prime location for cultivating these species, which are then exported globally for the holiday.

Nearly a year on from the October 7 attacks, the ongoing war has had a profound impact on the Arba Minim industry. The conflict has disrupted nearly every aspect of the cultivation, harvesting, and distribution:

• Miluim – Reserve Duty: Many Israeli farmers, and those that work on the fields, have been called up for reserve duty since the October 7 attacks. This has left many fields unattended for lengthy periods resulting in neglected crops and, in some cases, the abandonment of entire fields. For example, the owner of one of the fields that produces "US style" aravos has been in active reserve duty since October 7 leaving his field effectively abandoned. Sadly, the aravos from his field will not be ready for harvest prior to Sukkos this year.

• Displaced Farmers: Some orchards are located in the Gaza Envelope, and some are in very close proximity to the border. These orchards, mostly for etrogim, have been directly impacted by rocket fire and other security threats. Due to the security risk, and displacement of the farmers, these orchards were abandoned for many months. The delicate nature of etrog cultivation means that any period of neglect can severely affect the quality and quantity of the harvest. Sadly, it will not be possible to harvest etrogim from these orchards this year.

• Lack of Workers: The war has led to a severe shortage of labor in the agricultural sector. Foreign workers are reluctant to come to Israel due to safety concerns, and the movement of Palestinian/Arab workers has been heavily restricted. Without the necessary hands to help with harvesting, sorting, and packaging, the entire process has been delayed.

• Logistics and supply chain: The combination of abandoned crops, reduced yields, labour shortages and increased costs has placed a heavy financial burden on Israeli farmers who rely on the Arba Minim for their livelihood. The economic impact is compounded by the broader disruptions caused by the war, affecting not just individual farmers but the entire agricultural sector.
  
  The conflict has caused many airlines to suspend flights to and from Israel due to security concerns. This has led to increased costs for shipping and delays in the distribution of the Arba Minim to global markets. The price of packaging and preservation materials has also risen, further straining the industry.

Despite these challenges, we have worked tirelessly with our suppliers to ensure that the quality of our Arba Minim remains as high as ever.

The events of October 7 and the ensuing war have tested the nation’s spirit, but they have also brought people closer together. Farmers who were once competitors are now helping each other, sharing resources and labour where possible to ensure the world's supply of Arba Minim remains guaranteed and of high quality.

The story of Arba Minim this year is not just one of loss and difficulty. It is also a story of perseverance, of a people who continue to uphold their traditions and beliefs, even in the face of adversity.

Arba Minim are more than just agricultural products; they represent the unity of the Jewish people, and the idea that every individual, regardless of their background, personal attributes or achievements, contributes to the unity and completeness of the Jewish community.

In the merit of this unity and the mitzvah of Arba Minim, may we all be blessed with the ultimate redemption and a time of true peace in Israel.