The Spanish horticultural sector has been affected by strong rains for a week, bringing the campaign to a halt for some major products, such as citrus, strawberries and vegetables, since the fields are flooded and it is impossible to harvest. Demand continues to be covered despite the reduced supply at origin by resorting to produce that was stored in chambers.
In the Region of Valencia, the provinces of Valencia and Castellon are the most affected. In Valencia, the extent of the losses has been estimated at 4 million Euro, with about 2,200 hectares damaged, mainly by hail. The province of Castellon was less affected due to the absence of hail, although some areas registered more than 500 litres per square metre. Many handling facilities have had to stop working due to the difficult access to the fields; nevertheless, the sector welcomed the water after a long period of drought.
In addition to Almeria, where there have been many damages to greenhouse infrastructure, Huelva has also been affected by the prolonged rains, which have led to a reduction in the available supply of strawberries.
The abundant rainfall becomes a problem for the fruit when it is ready to be harvested. "Most of the time, after such a storm, the harvest is carried out under, far from optimal, moisture conditions. Ultimately, this results in the appearance of mould and moisture issues that appear days after the fruit has been harvested," explains Hispalco manager José Beltrán,
"For this reason, it is very important to inform importers about the fruit's condition and explain the problems they may face if they wish to receive the goods before it is advisable," he points out.