Winter demand seems to be good for Italian kiwis, despite competition from the Greek produce.
This was reported by an operator, who also explained demand was rather lively in November and December.
This in turn meant that, on the 31/12/2016, stocks were 26% lower than in 2015, even though prices were slightly lower than expected (due to batches not suitable for prolonged storage).
The presence on the European market of Greek produce at low prices and the availability of fruit from New Zealand, led Italian exporters to focus on overseas destinations (Taiwan, China, Australia, Brazil, US, Canada) that can guarantee higher prices.
In addition, demand from overseas combined with demand for big grades (Asia and Australia) and for medium-small grades (Brazil and North America).
Nonetheless, as is usual, shipments overseas slowed down between 15th December and 15th January. This period should be followed by a livelier one until the end of February and by a slower one again in March.
During the first few days of January 2017, despite the availability of produce from Greece, demand seems to be higher in Europe too (UK, Scandinavia and Germany).
According to the operator, the next two weeks will give a clear view of the season's evolution. "Should consumption maintain stocks at least 25% lower than 2016 with stable prices, it would be a base to stabilise prices in February and plan increases in March and April."
The expert is rather optimistic that March will lead to an increase in prices before Easter, also due to the fewer quantities available from Greece and Piedmont.
"Nowadays companies set aside produce with a dry matter content above 16 so as to continue the season until June. We can therefore be cautiously optimistic."