Spain 31/07/2023

Recovery in Catalonia's apple and pear production

 

Apple harvest in Catalonia is expected to reach 266,110 tons this year, a 1% decrease from the average of the last five years but a significant 22% increase compared to 2022 when frost caused a sharp decline, according to forecasts by the Catalan Fruit Business Association (Afrucat) and the Department of Climate Action, Food, and Rural Agenda of the Government of Catalonia.

The main producing regions are Lleida, with an estimated production of 175,960 tons, representing a 38% increase from the last campaign, and Girona, with 88,570 tons, similar to the previous year's quantity, and 4% higher than the average of the last five years.

As for pears, the forecast for 2023 is similar to the average of the last five years, with a remarkable 31% increase from 2022, totaling 126,000 tons. By regions, Lleida will produce 121,830 tons, 32% more than the last campaign; Girona 3,200 tons (+20%), Tarragona 870 tons (+61%), and Barcelona 313 tons (-8%). The harvest is expected to be advanced by 7 to 10 days compared to the previous year.

Manel Simon, the General Director of Afrucat, commented that with a projection close to the five-year average, it is relevant to consider that Catalonia has managed to salvage the apple and pear production. Nonetheless, the harvest pace has been affected by drought, resulting in a 15% to 20% reduction from its maximum yield.

It is worth noting that adverse weather conditions in the previous campaign, especially severe spring frosts, significantly impacted production, leading to a decline from initial forecasts. This year, there have been no significant frosts, and although there were some hail episodes in Lleida affecting 70% to 100% of crops and strong winds and showers in certain regions, the overall production loss has not been significant, according to AFRUCAT.

source: fepex.es