The Association of Strawberry Producers and Exporters of Huelva, Freshuelva, disclosed in the latter part of July that the 2021-2022 season concluded with a strawberry output totalling 270.120 tons. This figure marks a 4% reduction from the previous season. Despite an average sales price increase of 2.80%, this uptick did not offset the surge in production costs, leading to diminished profitability for growers, according to Freshuelva's season review.
The season did not extend into June as usual due to above-average temperatures in late April and May, which hastened the market entry of strawberries from other European countries, intensifying competition towards the season's end.
In contrast, raspberry production in Huelva saw a 7.5% increase, reaching 49.990 tons. The average sales price for raspberries also rose by 1.5%. Raspberries maintained stable demand and pricing throughout the season, coupled with high-quality produce across varieties, enhancing their position in European markets.
Blueberry production in Huelva experienced the most significant growth at 20.2%, totalling 59,100 tons. This increase is attributed to newer plantings reaching full productivity. However, this was juxtaposed with an 18% drop in the average sales price due to an oversupply in the market, prompted by a coinciding harvest period for various blueberry varieties and origins. Blackberry production remained stable at 2,000 tons, although the average price saw a 6% decrease.
Germany and the United Kingdom are the primary markets for Huelva's berries, with the UK surpassing France in strawberry imports post-Brexit. The Netherlands ranks third for raspberry and blueberry imports from Huelva.
Source: blueberriesconsulting.com