In the global food supply chain, logistics and transportation strategies play a decisive role in maintaining product quality. For perishable and semi-perishable goods like tomato paste, exporters must ensure that storage, handling, and shipping methods preserve freshness, flavor, and safety until the product reaches international markets.

Iran, as one of the leading producers of tomato paste, exports large quantities to Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. This requires highly efficient logistics systems and, in many cases, cold-chain shipping solutions to guarantee that the product complies with international standards and meets consumer expectations.

1. The Role of Logistics in Tomato Paste Export

Exporting bulk tomato paste involves more than just filling containers and shipping overseas. Successful logistics strategies cover:

•    Raw material handling – Ensuring freshly harvested tomatoes are processed and packed without delay.

•    Packaging solutions – Choosing the right container, from aseptic drums to retail-ready cans.

•    Storage conditions – Preventing contamination and maintaining consistent product quality.

•    International shipping coordination – Managing timelines, freight forwarders, customs clearance, and distribution.

An optimized logistics system reduces costs, minimizes risks, and ensures on-time delivery for importers worldwide.

2. Why Cold-Chain Solutions Matter for Tomato Paste?

While tomato paste is shelf-stable when processed and packaged correctly, certain conditions — especially bulk shipments in hot climates — may require temperature-controlled storage and transportation.

Key reasons for cold-chain in tomato paste exports:

•    Preventing fermentation or spoilage during long transit times.

•    Protecting organic or preservative-free paste that has higher sensitivity.

•    Maintaining nutritional value and natural flavor during extended storage.

•    Ensuring compliance with strict food safety regulations in regions like the EU.

Cold-chain solutions are particularly critical when exporting to hot regions in Africa and the Middle East or for premium and organic tomato paste buyers.

3. Packaging Options Supporting Logistics & Cold-Chain Efficiency

The right packaging not only ensures product integrity but also enhances transport efficiency:

•    Aseptic Drums (220L): Most common for bulk industrial buyers, ensuring a long shelf life without refrigeration.

•    Tin Cans (400g – 4.5kg): Popular for retail markets and foodservice distributors.

•    Glass Jars: Preferred for premium and organic tomato paste markets.

•    Sachet Packaging: Lightweight option for certain export markets in Africa and Asia.

By combining aseptic packaging with temperature-controlled transport, exporters minimize risks and increase customer satisfaction.

4. Global Shipping Routes & Challenges

Iranian tomato paste is shipped primarily to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East through key logistics hubs:

•    Europe: Containerized shipping via Turkish and Mediterranean ports.

•    Middle East: Direct land and sea transport routes with shorter delivery times.

•    Africa: Growing demand requires efficient sea freight with reliable cold-chain support.

•    Asia-Pacific: Long transit distances often require specialized packaging and controlled storage.

Challenges include:

•    Rising freight costs.

•    Limited reefer container availability.

•    Customs clearance delays in certain regions.

Overcoming these challenges requires exporters to work with experienced freight forwarders and maintain flexible logistics strategies.

5. Customs & Compliance in Cold-Chain Shipping

Regulatory compliance is a must in international trade. Importing countries often require:

•    Phytosanitary certificates.

•    ISO, HACCP, Halal, and Organic certifications.

•    Proof of proper storage and transport conditions (especially for cold-chain shipments).

Failure to comply can lead to delays, fines, or product rejection at the port of entry. Exporters must ensure traceability and full documentation at every step.

6. Tamila Agrifood’s Shipping & Logistics Expertise

At Tamila Agrifood, we understand that logistics is not just about transport — it’s about delivering confidence to our partners.

We provide:

•    Flexible logistics solutions tailored to each buyer’s needs.

•    Cold-chain shipping options for sensitive and organic tomato paste.

•    Efficient warehousing and customs clearance support.

•    Strong partnerships with global freight forwarders for smooth transit.

Whether you require bulk shipments in aseptic drums or retail-ready products, our logistics team ensures that your order reaches its destination safely and on time.

Conclusion

The success of bulk Iranian tomato paste export depends on more than just production quality — it requires reliable logistics and cold-chain solutions. With global demand growing, importers need partners who can guarantee product integrity from factory to port to shelf.

At Tamila Agrifood, we are committed to delivering not only high-quality tomato paste but also world-class logistics support, ensuring that our buyers receive consistent, safe, and premium products wherever they are in the world.

Email:  tamilaagrifood@gmail.com

Call / WhatsApp for Quotations:  +989141858935