Spain 28/07/2023
Murcia hosts Melon & Watermelon Innovation Days
Earlier this month, the Association of Fruit and Vegetable Producers and Exporters of the Murcia Region, Proexport, organized the 'Melon & Watermelon Innovation Days,' a series of events where Spanish and international seed companies showcased their latest developments in melon and watermelon varieties.
The following companies have participated in the event: Enza Zaden, Nunhems, Seminis, Rijk Zwaan, Semillas Fitó, and Syngenta, among othersç
According to Proexport's General Director, Fernando Gomez, investment in research, development, and innovation (I+D+i) is crucial for agriculture. In the case of melon and watermelon, producers are looking for plant materials that provide enhanced flavors, colors, aromas, and attractive textures, as well as resistance to pests and diseases, optimization of inputs, and adaptation to climate change, among many other factors. However, taste remains a critical aspect.
Obtaining improvements in production involves significant efforts from seed companies, who work closely with producers, sometimes taking up to ten years to develop varieties that reach the market. Throughout this process, they remain attentive to consumers' needs, preferences, and tastes.
According to data from the Department of Customs and Special Taxes, in 2022, the Murcia Region cultivated 4,609 hectares of melon, representing 28.4% of the total national production, coming second only to Castilla la Mancha. Additionally, it cultivated 2,788 hectares of watermelon, accounting for 12.9% of the total, and ranking third after Castilla la Mancha and Andalusia. The region harvested 181,883 tons of watermelon (15.63%) and 171,744 tons of melon (32.8%).
Regarding exports, the Murcia Region leads in melon exports nationally, accounting for 50% of the total, and ranks second in watermelon exports with a share of 20%, following Andalusia. In 2022, Murcia exported 169,019 tons of melon with a value of 143 million euros, and 129,861 tons of watermelon with a value of 82.8 million euros.
source: fepex.es