"Spain: "Increase in the demand for organic production in recent years"

Until now, the organic production had always been exported entirely to countries such as France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, the UK, etc. However "we have been observing an increase in the demand from the Spanish market for several years. It is a bit risky to give figures, because it depends on the product and the part of the country," affirms Arturo Fernández, one of the owners of Cortijo Las Palomas.

One of the products they are currently able to offer to consumers are Verna lemons, which have been marketed for about three weeks and whose campaign should last until late June, "depending on the weather," explains Fernández. This product has only been part of the range for three years, but their volume is already on the rise. Last year, they had about 500 tonnes, and this year that figure will increase to around 600 tonnes.

Organic lemon prices currently stand at €1.30 in the Perpignan market; €0.25 cheaper than at the start of the season. It is worth mentioning that the organic price is usually between 10-15% higher than the conventional "because of the greater labour involved," concludes Fernández.

For more information:

Arturo Fernández

Cortijo las Palomas

Tel.: +34 607 915125

arturo@cortijolaspalomas.com