What CXS 363-2025 means for date buyers and exporters

The Codex Alimentarius Commission adopted its first international standard specifically for fresh dates in November 2025. It gives the trade a common quality reference—but it does not replace destination law, an agreed buyer specification or product-level evidence.

A common reference after a decade of work

The standard was adopted at the 48th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission. FAO describes it as the outcome of work first proposed in 2015 as trade in fresh dates expanded and producing countries sought internationally agreed minimum requirements.

The public adoption summary highlights quality categories and parameters including size, colour, shape, uniformity and packaging. Buyers should consult the complete text, CXS 363-2025, when determining how the reference applies to a proposed product.

What changes for professional buyers

1. The specification conversation becomes more structured

Terms such as class, size and presentation should be defined against a written reference rather than used as loose commercial language. A quotation is still meaningful only when the proposed product and agreed tolerances are clear.

2. Visual quality is only one part of acceptance

Product condition, uniformity, packaging and labelling must be considered alongside the applicable hygiene, contaminant and residue requirements. The buyer's destination and channel may add further obligations.

3. Evidence must remain product-specific

The existence of a Codex standard does not make a trader, producer or shipment “Codex certified”. A buyer should still request the current specification, relevant certificates, batch documents and any agreed inspection evidence.

A practical buyer checklist

Before comparing offers, align the product description, variety, grade or class, size designation, presentation, defect and condition expectations, crop or production period, pack format, labelling, certification, destination requirements and inspection basis.

Then confirm which documents form part of the proposed supply and which values or tolerances will become contractual.

Official sources

Consult the official Codex standards database and search for CXS 363-2025. FAO also provides the official adoption summary.