On August 1st, 2024, French apple production was forecasted to decline by 3% compared to 2023, amounting to 1.55 million tonnes. According to Agreste's economic outlook, this decrease will impact nearly all regions except Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur (PACA) and, to a lesser extent, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
A drop in production after a strong 2023
As of August 1st, 2024, French apple production is estimated at 1,546,900 tonnes, representing a 3% decrease from the previous year but still 5% above the 2019-2023 average.
Regional production trends
In most regions, production is expected to decline, except for Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. In Occitanie, particularly in Roussillon and Gard, severe fruit drop has significantly affected the Golden and Gala varieties. The Garonne Valley is also seeing a downturn, primarily in the Golden variety, although production is expected to be 10% higher than the five-year average.
In Nouvelle-Aquitaine, after a strong 2023 harvest, production is anticipated to decrease, especially for the Golden variety. Frost in Limousin and cool, wet conditions in Aquitaine have negatively impacted flowering, leading to a 10% year-on-year drop and a 4% decrease compared to the five-year average.
In Pays de la Loire, damp conditions and hail have delayed the harvest, which is expected to be lower than in 2023 but stable over five years.
In Centre-Val de Loire, despite significant disease and pest pressures, production is expected to surpass the five-year average, though it will be slightly down from 2023.
In Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, production is set to rise significantly following a poor 2023 harvest, particularly in Provence, where rainfall has replenished soil moisture levels to a high for the season.
In Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, favourable weather conditions, including adequate rainfall and high temperatures, have supported normal fruit growth. Production in this region is expected to match 2023 levels and exceed the five-year average.
Source: agreste.agriculture.gouv.fr
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Agreste