"We are aware that the fruit and vegetable sector is going through a sensitive period, but we hope that this is temporary," said the manager of the German-Argentinian Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK), Ursula Brendecke.
"In recent years, the country has increased its presence in overseas traditional and non traditional markets. Exports of pears, limes and apples improved in 2013, while other products had a drop," said Ursula.
According to data from Top Info Marketing SA, exports of apples, pears, citrus and summer fruits, such as grapes and stonefruits, decreased during the first six months of 2014 when compared to the same period last year. This was due to a decline in production and an increase in domestic costs.
"Additionally, this year, Europe had an ample supply of citrus, apples and pears, so their demand for our products decreased," continued Ursula.
The decrease in exports of summer fruits had another cause: the shortage caused by the late frosts. Lime exports, which were between 100,000 and 140,000 tons, amounted to half of what was exported three years ago.
"The statistics show that there is a negative trend in export volumes of Argentine fruits. However, the decline is less significant in terms of value, as the fruits were exported at a higher value," she stated.
"Regardless of the statistics and numbers, it is important to understand what the challenges and the general changes in consumer behaviour are, as well as those of particular groups among which are the vegans, vegetarians and people who are intolerant to certain products," she said.
Ursula said that the fruit and vegetable sector in the world was facing more demands, as the consumer requires a fruit of the highest quality and that its production generates minimal environmental impact.
"We believe that Argentina can meet these because of the country's climatic and soil conditions, coupled with the producers' commitment to use fewer agrochemicals. In this sense, Argentina is a major player in the fruit and vegetable market. It is the main producer of citrus in the southern Hemisphere with its limes and tangerines. It is also very strong in the production of other fruits, such as blueberries, cherries, apples, pears and grapes, among others," she said.
"As an organization that works with partnerships between the public and private sector, we would like to point out that Argentina has established that the fruit and vegetable sector is of strategic importance. The Exportar foundation, Proargex and the federal council of investments promote and encourage exports to traditional and non-traditional markets."
The private sector is actively involved in these actions. Some specific examples include promotional fairs such as the latest edition of the Fruit Logistica (which took place in Berlin). "55 national companies attended it and Argentina has reserved 5% more space for the next edition," said Erika Enrieti, manager of Fairs and Exhibitions.
The Exportar Foundation will also be participating in the next Asia Fruit Logistica, which will be held between September 3 and 5 in Hong Kong. The Exportar Foundation has a 156 square meter stand, 30% bigger than in the previous edition.
"The country consolidates itself every year as a key player in this sector, as it is able to supply and meet the high standards set by the international market," she concluded.
Source: Infocampo