Greek kiwifruit exports are slow at this time. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food, up until October, only 10,296 tons had been shipped, with 3,166 tons going to Italy (compared to 20,841 and 10,920 tons respectively last year).
This is due, in part, to the fact that this year, the Italian production has grown by 18% compared to last year (by about 60-70 thousand tons). Moreover, at this time there are still large stocks of kiwifruit from the southern hemisphere (New Zealand, Chile etc.). As a result of these two factors, there is no longer a rising demand on international markets. Reports point to exports possibly improving after mid-December, so storage in refrigerated chambers is the best solution for kiwifruit traders.
In a statement to AgroTypos, the president of Zeus Kiwi and member of the Board of Directors of the Exporters' Association of Northern Greece, Mr. Dimitris Manosis, stressed that "we should change the model that we have followed in previous years, i.e. exporting straight from the field."
"Kiwifruit exports are made until May and I don't understand why we are rushing to export the product. We are not selling much at this time, as there are still stocks from the southern hemisphere. Also, the Italian production is greater than last year's."
This year's Greek kiwifruit production is estimated to be about 5% smaller than last year's. The country recorded losses mainly in the Arta region due to unfavorable weather conditions.
Also worth noting is that consumption in Europe has reached the upper limit, and consumption in Greece is currently very low. This should change; however, last year's prices are very difficult to repeat."
Source: agrotypos.gr