The warmer temperatures registered in recent weeks have caused a significant increase in Huelva's strawberry production volumes. This circumstance, according to sources from the sector, has driven prices down.
According to the president of Freshuelva and Interfresa, Alberto Garrocho, the accumulated production is currently the same as that of the same period last year. He highlighted how "this peak production has entailed price drops in the European markets at a time of the month when consumption levels are usually also notably lower."
Profitability margins have consequently suffered a heavy blow, with production costs not being covered. According to the president of Freshuelva, prices in March have been around 20% lower than in the same month last year.
In addition to the effects of the weather and the drop in consumption levels, a third factor must be taken into account, which was the competition in markets like France, Italy, the Netherlands or Belgium with local producers. "The mild winter temperatures have advanced the beginning of their seasons, contributing to the current situation of oversupply.
For this reason, Huelva's strawberries must continue "reaching the highest standards of quality in every aspect, as it is essential to please consumers in this increasingly demanding market, concluded Alberto Garrocho."
Source: europapress.es