Most consumers in Poland appreciate the good taste and health properties of Polish berries, but most do not realise the great potential this line of agricultural production has, both in the EU and on the global market. Over the last decade, Poland's acreage for the production of berries has increased from 115 thousand to 147 thousand hectares (+28%). At the same time, production volumes have grown from 502 thousand to 607 thousand tonnes (about 21% up).
Such a significant growth in the production of berries has been regarded as a great success, even if their cultivation is carried out mainly in small farms with only a few hectares. According to statistics of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Poland is the EU's leading berry producer and a significant participant in the global market.
The high foreign demand for Polish berries, whether fresh of frozen, is due to their great reputation amongst consumers.
To maintain Poland's high position in the berry market, action is needed to increase yields in the coming years and further improve quality, while increasing the share of frozen and processed fruit. It is also extremely important to achieve a greater integration of fruit producer organizations to develop cooperation with the canning industry.
It is also perceived as essential to undertake promotional activities aimed at boosting the consumption of berries, creating healthy eating habits and increasing export volumes.
