Israel plans grants for settlement exporters as trade restrictions spread
Companies may receive up to 200,000 shekels to seek alternative markets, as restrictions take effect in some countries and remain proposals elsewhere.
Israel plans to offer companies operating in settlements grants of up to 200,000 shekels to help them find alternative export markets. The assistance is intended to support exporters, including fresh produce firms, as some countries restrict settlement goods and others consider doing so.
The Foreign Trade Administration has established a team to help firms identify markets including the Philippines, India, the United Arab Emirates, Chile and Argentina. More than 25 companies have applied, according to Israeli media outlet Calcalist, which reported comments from the agency’s head, Roey Fisher.
The restrictions vary in scope and legal status. Spain and Ireland have introduced measures targeting imports of settlement goods, while the Netherlands’ ban took effect on 22 September. The Dutch measure also covers purchases and sales, services facilitating the trade, and attempts to circumvent restrictions.
On 8 September, 12 countries said they intended to introduce national restrictions, support European-level measures or consider action. Many announced measures are not yet in force. Proposals in Belgium and Norway remain under consideration, while the UK has said legislation would be introduced within six to nine months.
The commercial effect remains uncertain. Julie Norman, an associate fellow at Chatham House, told Al Jazeera the grants could help exporters find new markets but were unlikely to fully offset lost sales in the short term. The number of firms ultimately affected and the extent to which alternative markets can absorb redirected exports are not established.
