"Spain: "First apricots to reach larger calibres this year"

Extremadura's stonefruit campaign is about to start with the earliest apricots.

"We'll start harvesting the first apricots on 7 May, which is more or less the same date as last year, even though initially we expected it to be delayed due to the low temperatures registered this winter, which delayed the sprouting," explains Daniel Blanco, sales manager of the company Mogalla S.A.T.

"We'll kick off with apricots of the Mogador, Colorado, Flodea, Megatea and Flopria varieties until early or mid-June, when we'll start the flat peach campaign, with varieties such as Milady, Carioca and Epica, which will last until the end of that month."

While Catalonia expects greater production volumes, Daniel believes that the total Spanish production will be very similar to last year's.

"In Mogalla we have higher volumes than last year because our plantations are young and their production is increasing. This season we expect about 30-35% more than last year. However, we have been informed that yields will vary depending on the region and that the total overall volume will be very similar to last season."

In terms of quality, Daniel affirms it will be better this year and "with larger calibres as a result of the good thinning and pruning carried out in our plantations."

Fortunately, the Russian veto did not affect Mogalla's stonefruit campaign last year. "We usually start and finish very early, but for the citrus, kaki and pomegranate campaigns we were severely hit, as there was oversupply in the European market and consequently lower prices," recalls Daniel.

"Our main markets last year were Switzerland, Italy, Portugal, France, the UK, the Netherlands, Belgium and the Czech Republic, with overall increased export shipments. This year we want to continue growing and diversifying with new markets."

Daniel Blanco

Carretera Sevilla – Ayamonte, km. 104.
Huelva, Andalusia. Spain.

T: +34 954 934 272