The Israeli pepper season has carefully started. "We have started a bit later and didn't start exporting until last week, mainly to Russia and the United States. Due to the heat a few months ago the first load is later than usual and is very small. I don't expect the volumes to increase for another two or three weeks," says Frank Mosterd of Gilad Produce.
The number of Israeli peppers growers and exporters reduced considerably after the bad last season and the seasons before. "The Israeli didn't make a good name in quality, especially last year. A lot of growers have stopped and greenhouses are lying fallow. The volume will be around 35% less," Frank expects. "Luckily the quality looks good at the moment and we are hoping this will remain so throughout the year."
The supply from Spain will once again be largely decisive for the Israeli season. "If Spain has everything under control, Israel will play a supporting role. Spain always fills in the large volumes for the Israeli window is getting smaller. As the Dutch season benefited from the tight, Spanish supply after the hot summer, as did Israeli."
"At the moment the pepper prices in Europe are at a low level. The price difference with a market like America is huge. I expect it to keep up this week and next. Then Holland will be as good as off the market and I expect the prices to be able to rise," concludes Frank.
For more information:
Frank Mosterd
Gilad Produce
Tel: +31 174 518 530
Fax : +31 174 528 502
Mob: +316-2255 6700
www.giladproduce.com