Pomegranate harvest in Argentina.
"At TikaGroup SRL, we are pioneers in the production of pomegranates in Argentina. We introduced the first cuttings of varieties such as the Wonderful and Ako, as well as some earlier varieties. We carried out plantation projects on farms for the production of pomegranates in San Juan, Salta and Cordoba, as well as tests in Santiago del Estero and Tucuman. Producers are now gradually also entering other markets," explains Federico Borti.
Argentina's harvest campaign kicks off with the early varieties in early February. The Wonderful, which is the variety with the most hectares, is harvested in early March.
"Productivity will continue to increase, as our plantations are still young, with a production level of 10 to 15 tonnes per hectare, and the idea is to reach between 25 and 30 tonnes," he explains.
In 2014, the first batches reached really good prices, and by the end of the campaign they stayed at levels according to market demand. Only some logistical problems occasionally took a toll on the normal development of shipments.
"Last year, producers exported 200 tonnes and this year this figure is expected to double. Argentina supplies first-class quality fruit, demand is strong, and "we are learning more and more about this fruit and improving both domestic and maritime logistics," he explains, adding: "The country, at the moment, is momentarily hampered by high costs, but we are not facing any difficulties to export the pomegranates. We are confident that, in the coming years, importers will increasingly choose our country to become their main supplier for this product, which aims to remain relevant in the worldwide market."
More information:
Federico Borti Uliana
TIKAGROUP
info@tikagroup.com
T: +54 11 4325 6202