The price at origin of Spanish avocados has dropped to one third of that reached a year ago, mainly due to the oversupply caused by the entry into Europe of production from South Africa and Peru early in the season.
This was reported by the president of the Spanish Association of Tropical Producers, José Linares, while commenting on the latest domestic avocado price released by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPA), and which stands at 78.05 cents per kilo in week 47 of 2018 (from November 19 to 25).
According to the Ministry, the average price at origin in week 47 of 2017 was 232 cents per kilo; lower than the 250 cents/kg that were reached in the same period of 2016. However, Linares explained that current prices this year stand below the 150 cents/kg which the sector needs to be able to cover the production costs.
Demand continues to increase in Europe
According to the association's estimations, Europe will consume 500,000 tons of avocados this year; a figure that could reach 580,000 tons in 2019.
Spain, which started the campaign with the Bacon variety a few weeks ago, expects to produce 70,000 tons, compared to 55,000 tons last season.
The Ministry started registering this year's avocado prices at origin in week 37 (when they stood at 132 cents/kg). The maximum so far was reached in week 41 (200.07 cents/kg), but today it stands at 78.05 cents/kg.
Source: Efeagro.com