Peach and nectarine acreage gradually reduced
The issues with the blooming caused by high temperatures have resulted in a 20 to 30% decline in the production of peaches and nectarines, while that of apricots is expected to fall by about 10%, taking into account that there are new plantations becoming productive. For Paraguayo peaches, Murcia has a growing production which amounts to around 80,000 tonnes. "We believe that the acreage devoted to nectarines and peaches will be reduced by up to 25% in the coming years to give more room to apricots and Paraguayo peaches."
According to the representative, it is difficult to expand the acreage devoted to stonefruit in Murcia because of the limited water resources. "It's not easy to find suitable production areas for the cultivation of extra early varieties, which have less productivity because of their smaller size and density, although the lack of water is also a deterrent, on the other hand, for the spread of diseases, such as Monilia.
Russia's veto on Turkey raises concerns in the sector
More than 80% of Murcia's stonefruit is exported, mainly to European countries, although other markets are becoming increasingly more attractive. This year, with China about to allow the first shipments of Spanish stonefruit, it is very likely that the first tests will be carried out after the protocol is signed.
The loss of the Russian market continues to affect the industry, and after the veto was extended to Turkey at the end of 2015, there are fears about the European market becoming flooded with Turkish fruit. "We fear that Turkish fruit could flood the market this season, although it would mostly affect the later growing areas. Growers are worried about this."