Breva fig harvest in Spain meets with unexpected competition from Brazil

With a delay of about ten days compared to last year due to the mild temperatures during the spring and the abundant rainfall, the Spanish Breva fig campaign has started this week in Elche.

"The European markets were waiting impatiently for the arrival of the first Spanish Breva figs, since at the moment, there is no production available from any other origin, at least in Europe," explains Susi Bonet, of the sales department of Cambayas.

According to Bonet, "the harvest volumes are similar to those of the previous season, and the quality is also good, thanks to the fact that they have managed to avoid the impact of hail and torrential rains." We are happy with the calibres, since the most common sizes are those between 25 and 30."

The fact that the temperatures have been lower than usual has not only delayed the harvest, but "will cause the harvesting season up until week 25 to be staggered. This should prevent situations of oversupply and help keep prices at good levels," said Susi Bonet.

Initial prices are also similar to those recorded early last season in the main markets for Cambayas' Breva figs, which are Spain, France and the Netherlands.

"We also usually export, although to a lesser extent, to third markets such as Canada or the Middle East, although this year we cannot ship to these countries due to the surprising competition from a new competitor: Brazil. So far, we had never had to compete against Brazilian figs, which always used to stay in their local market. We don't really know why they are exporting at this time; their prices are lower than ours and it is difficult to compete with them," explains Susi Bonet.