France: insufficient demand for French stonefruit

Tholen – The French production of peaches (including blood peaches) and nectarines is estimated at 425K MT per September 1. The crop is 7% larger than last year and 1% smaller than the average of the five previous campaigns. The production acreage has decreased on a national level with 1%. This decrease is smaller than it has been during previous years, thanks to the fact that several orchards in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur have come into production.

The decrease of acreage is the largest in Rhône-Alpes, where the sharka virus is wreaking havoc and economical difficulties discourage growers. The production has slipped 10% compared to last year and this is connected to the decrease of acreage.

The crops are generally good, except in Isère, where hail storms in June and July have seriously damaged crops. The sanitary condition of orchards is generally healthy.

The demand for the product was present, but insufficient, in spite of promotions during the summer season. Exports were frustrated by competition from Italy and Spain. In July and august prices continued their decrease. In August the price index was 5% lower than last year and 19% lower than the five year average.

Publication date: 27 Sep 2005
Author: Andre van der Wiel, editor
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