Exports: Low expectations for oranges

From next week it will be possible to see the magnitude of the disaster and to assess the damage caused by the latest frost to fruit and citrus trees.

In fact, as commented by the Association of Exporters of Fruits, Vegetables and Juices (Incofruit Hellas), given that the antifreeze systems in some areas did not work due to power outages, the damage is expected to be greater.

In terms of exports and the new year, the flow of oranges is low, demand is lower, consumption is lower, and prices are even more pressed.

“Exports of orange and mandarins were very different from the beginning of the current trading season. In the middle of the season, the conditions have not changed, while the expectations for the oranges remain low”, comments the Association.

The price of Navel oranges continues at low levels, while the Navel Lane Late harvest continued at very mediocre prices.

On the other hand, mandarins had a good commercial effect throughout the harvesting process and achieved acceptable prices.

Cold treatment in imports of oranges

The cold treatment against the false moth (Thaumatotibia leucotreta) for the import of oranges seems to be required by the EU.

This measure is welcomed by the special advisor of the Exporters Association George Polychronakis, points out that this way the EU will protect its agriculture in the best way from the possible entry of this serious pest. “The measure does not affect mandarins or grapefruit, which may carry Thaumatotibia leucotreta. “If this insect settles in European citrus growing areas, it would be difficult to eradicate it due to the lack of approved insecticides.”

The remaining exports

Exports of strawberries and tomatoes 1 / 1-3 / 2/2022 amount to 3,208 and 2,365 tons respectively, compared to 3,380 and 3,292 tons last year.

The exports of apples continue at a low rate and from 1 / 9-4 / 2/22 their export amounts to 34,279 tons, reduced by 28.8% compared to last year.

From 1/9/2021 to 4/2/2022 the cargo announcements registered in the MENO for export-movement of kiwi, concerned 125,978 tons, increased by 9.7% of which 34,786 tons were directed to third countries outside the EU, ie the 27.6% of the total, compared to 30,701 tons last year.

The campaign of table grapes ended with a negative sign, recording a decrease of 15.9% compared to last year (61,064 tons).