Italy: Low garlic quotations

"Chinese producers seem to be complaining about a production drop of around 50-80%. The media have actually reported problems caused by root rot, but it's difficult to believe the situation has affected that much produce. It seems more like an attempt to condition the market," reports Antonio Tuccillo, administrator of Agrimpex Farming Srl, specialising in the distribution of garlic on the Italian market.

"We managed to avoid a disaster thanks to sales to South America this spring. It's difficult to determine quantities available but there is definitely an excess of unsold goods (50% more than last year). Should garlic be lacking in China, it would benefit European productions as well as those from the US, Mexico and South America. We still need to bear in mind volumes are excessive all over Europe, though."

As regards new export markets or different consumer preferences, Tuccillo reports that there are none. "Actually, with the latest closure from the US, all producer countries should think about their own domestic consumption."

"Prices reflect the situation, as quotations are low and not satisfactory."