This is expected to become a great year for those involved in the lemon sector in Greece, as the prices paid to producers in recent days have increased by up to 50%, confirming the reports of Agrenda of two weeks ago, which had predicted an increase of prices in the short term.
Specifically, in Aegialia prices for producers have now reached 45-50 cents per kilo, up by about 10% compared to two weeks ago, when they stood at 40-45 cents. This upward trend is the result of both the upcoming end of the trading period and the notorious reduction of the production because of frost. Prices are, in fact, expected to continue rising, as the production is unable to meet the demand, according to the president of the Union of Cooperatives of Panaigialeios, Thanassis Sotiropoulos.
The weather conditions for the past 15 days have been a big factor behind the price increases, with temperatures as low as -7 degrees Celsius and continuous rainfall, which have caused damage to the fruit. "The extent of the damage will only become clear once the temperatures rise," said Mr Sotiropoulos.
The situation is similar in Preveza, where the prices paid to producers have increased by 50% in one month and have reached 40-45 cents per kilo, depending on quality, while in December they stood at 30 to 31 cents per kilo. Moreover, export prices this year are higher than last season.
Chari Prasino, Commercial Director of Laconic Gardens, reported that export prices reached 65 cents per kilo a week ago, which is more than 80% higher than last year, when they stood at 35-40 cents per kilo.
Source: agronews.gr