Senegalese watermelons have arrived on the market in large quantities and with exceptional quality, assures Mohamed Mbengue, from Union Agri des Niayes.
"The Senegalese watermelon campaign began this year on February 20 and will continue until May 10. We're happy to report that quality is exceptionally good, with sizes averaging 10 kg and sometimes over 14 kg. The brix is high and the sweetness promises a high customer satisfaction," says Mbengue.
The grower adds, "We're also seeing a sharp increase in volumes compared to previous seasons, which will no doubt require major commercial efforts to find new customers."
The Senegalese watermelon campaign is one of the earliest, along with other West African countries, while demand for the fruit is linked to summer and warm temperatures. But Mohamed remains confident: "By offering the first watermelons on the market as early as February, we're offering a fresh, high-quality product for watermelon lovers all year round. And this demand does exist, and we hope it will increase. We've already started exporting to Spain. Once the temperature rises in Europe, we'll still have volumes to keep up with demand."
"Our watermelons are also suitable for European traders who want to build up an early stock in order to be the first on the market with assured quality," adds Mbengue.
Mbengue expects strong demand this year from Spain, the UK, and the Netherlands. He concludes, "We anticipate some difficulties due to the large volumes, but we remain optimistic."
For more information:
Mohamed Mbengue
Union Agri des Niayes
Tel: +00221771790419
Email: [email protected]