In recent years, the Russian market was the largest export destination, but because of the embargo there has been a greater focus on other markets, including the EU countries, eastern and southern Europe, as well as North Africa and the Arab countries. The president noted that the sector wants to expand even more in the coming years and strengthen its position in distant markets such as India, China, Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia.
"We have the prospect to open these markets, and even if Russia extended the embargo for the next months, we will find places where we can sell the production," assured Maliszewski. He pointed out that even if Russia reopens its market to Polish apples, they will continue seeking new destinations to diversify and reduce dependence on Russia.
Ultimately, the problems faced by growers resulted in a greater interest in Polish apples by consumers and charities, to which the fruits were directed in exchange for EU compensation. "This resulted in an increase in the consumption of apples, and it is clear that there is still potential for growth in this sense," noted Maliszewski. "I think this season Poles will have bought an average of up to 18 kg of apples, compared to the 14-16 kg of previous years."
Source: biznes.interia.pl
