The European Garlic Contact Group, which recently met in Chabrillan, France, has concluded that Europe's garlic sector faces a complicated landscape as the cultivated area decreases and production costs increase. Producers and representatives from Spain, France, and Italy analyzed the market situation and the prospects for the coming season.
One of the central themes of the meeting was the evolution of the cultivated area in Spain. In 2024, it stood at 22,753 hectares, compared to 24,889 hectares in 2023. However, according to estimates by the National Garlic Table, the area is expected to rebound by 5% in 2025, reaching 23,956 hectares. This increase, although positive, will not compensate for the loss suffered in recent years.
Producers are concerned about the drop in purple garlic production, especially in regions such as Castilla-La Mancha, where this variety has historically been predominant. Its low yields have forced many growers to opt for other, more productive varieties.
The Contact Group also discussed the impact of the reduction in phytosanitary solutions available in the European Union. The ban on certain active materials for pest and disease control has increased production costs and reduced the competitiveness of European garlic against imports from third countries. In addition, the lack of uniformity in sanitary regulations within the EU creates an inequality that hampers the profitability of European producers.
The European Garlic Contact Group members expressed concern about the lack of reciprocity between European and non-EU production's health and environmental requirements. This situation, coupled with the consumer's lack of knowledge about the differences in quality and regulations between the two markets, forces European producers to sell at higher prices to guarantee economic viability.
To address these challenges, Julio Bacete, president of the National Garlic Board and vice president of Agri-food Cooperatives of Castile-La Mancha, proposed strengthening Spanish, French, and Italian research collaboration. In particular, he stressed the importance of developing a genetic map of European garlic, which would improve adapting it to climate change, optimize water and nutrient use, and increase crop health. These initiatives would strengthen the sector's competitiveness and contribute to generational renewal in agriculture.
The meeting in Chabrillan made it clear that the future of European garlic will largely depend on international cooperation, technological innovation, and the implementation of policies that ensure a level playing field for community producers. In this context, the search for joint solutions becomes a priority to maintain the quality and sustainability of this emblematic crop in Europe.
Source: vocesdecuenca.com and agrodiario.com