"As of May 1st, 2024, French strawberry production was estimated at 76.3 million tons for the 2024 campaign. Production is expected to be similar to last year's, but this spring's unusual weather conditions have led to a slightly atypical production schedule. In April 2024, prices were 8% higher than in 2023 and 14% higher than the 2019-2023 average over the same period," according to Agreste.
Gariguette production peaks in early April
"French strawberry surface areas for the 2024 campaign is forecast at 3,778 hectares, which is 2% lower than last year. The drop from 2023 is more marked in southwestern France, due to a reduction of open-ground areas and a shift towards greenhouse production. French strawberry production, estimated at 76.3 million tons, is similar to last year's and 5% higher than the five-year average.
The campaign started late due to unfavorable weather conditions and a lack of light. Gariguette volumes, especially in the southwest of France, were high in the first half of April. Production of all varieties then dropped from the end of April, due to weather conditions that were less favorable to ripening in all production basins, despite the increasing popularity of round strawberry varieties.
Active demand on the market
In March, supplies remained limited and prices were 16% higher than during the previous season and the five-year average for the same period. The Easter period went well in terms of sales, with a supply lower than the demand. April was a busy month for operators, due to the early demand for Gariguette strawberries. Prices were adjusted down and promotional actions in the stores enabled volumes to flow.
Between January and March 2024, exports (4,300 tons) went up 12%, while imports (16,000 tons) remained stable compared to last year over the same period. Overall, the foreign trade deficit is down by 3%, compared to 2023."
Source: Agreste
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