As reported by ADN Río Negro: "In the first 45 days of 2015 exports of apples and pears have dropped by 91.80% and 52.41%, respectively, compared to the same period of 2014."
"The extent of the drop in exports has been such due to weather issues (severe hail storms), trade problems (wage claims and protests) and commercial issues (the devaluation of the Rouble and the Euro; large stocks of fruit in the northern hemisphere, etc.)," explains Óscar Martín, President of Argentina's Chamber of Integrated Fruit Growers (CAFI).
By 15 February, 2015, only 231 tonnes of apples had been exported, while in the same period of 2014 this figure reached 2,816 tonnes.
In the same period, 13,828 tonnes of pears were exported, while in 2014 exports reached 29,054 tonnes.
"The most important destinations for the fruit are Europe and Russia. This large drop in exports at the beginning of the season entails serious financial consequences for the entire production chain, seriously affecting logistics," affirms Óscar.
The drop in exports by destination, according to ADN Río Negro, is as follows: United States, 14.21%; Russia, 57.16%, the Netherlands, 72.95%; Italy, 57.78%; Spain, 50.76%; the UK, 70.06%; Norway, 78.13%; France, 50.27%; Sweden, 92.49%, and Algeria, 82.54%.
"The national Government needs to take a more active approach, since the measures announced are more promises than concrete action. Also of concern is the possible resignation of Cabinet Chief Jorge Capitanich, who has been our interlocutor with the Government and whose resignation will hinder and slow down further Government decision-making to help alleviate this terrible crisis," states Óscar.
Óscar points out that so far the only concrete measures have been a contribution of 50 million pesos to small and medium producers from the national Government, another 50 million from the Government of the province of Río Negro and 10 million from the Government of the province of Neuquén. This figure is still far from the 400 million pesos that the sector requested to salvage the season.
"Some improvements are expected in the shipments to the United States and Brazil. The Brazilian market opened with great prospects, but due to the drop in exports to other markets, we have shipped too much fruit, and this, in combination with the import of pome fruits from other sources, has driven prices down," affirms Óscar.
It all points to an increase in the volume of fruit in the domestic market, which according to Óscar has been responding satisfactorily so far.
"The Government promised us a strong promotional campaign during Fútbol para Todos, the broadcast of the football matches of the Argentinian first division. In a footballing country like ours, this should surely lead to a noteworthy increase in consumption, so we hope they abide by their promise," concludes Óscar.
More information:
Óscar Martín
CAFI
cafi@cafi.org.ar
www.cafi.org.ar