Russian fruit growers are appealing to retailers to adopt more lenient standards for apple appearance this year. A.Shirinov, Chairman of the Stavropol Gardeners Association, noted that the abnormal heat in the North Caucasus has produced smaller apples, while those in the Krasnodar region are less brightly coloured. Retailers typically require apples to reach a diameter of 75 mm, but this year, Russian growers may only be able to offer fruit around 65 mm in size, Shirinov estimated.
Shirinov expects the overall apple harvest to remain stable, with reduced yields in Central Russia offset by increased production in the South. The Ministry of Agriculture initially forecasted 1.8 million tons but revised it down to 1.5 million tons. I. Mukhanin, President of the Russian Gardeners Association, anticipates around 1.7 million tons of marketable fruit, while T. Reshetnikova, CEO of "Growth Technologies," warns that unfavourable weather could cause a 30-35% decrease compared to 2023, with most apples not meeting dessert-grade standards.
Shirinov does not predict an apple shortage or a significant price increase. He expects prices to rise only in line with inflation. Currently, wholesale prices from producers range from €0.3/kg to €0.8/kg, depending on the quality of the fruit. According to Rosstat data from August 19, the average retail price for apples was €1.6/kg, up from €1.4/kg a year earlier.
Source: agroinvestor.ru