The Vicepresident of the Region of Valencia and Councillor of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food and Water, José Císcar, highlighted the "market strength and prestige" reached by the commercial brand Persimon "within just a five year period."
Císcar made this statement after attending the presentation of the kaki promotional campaign organised annually by the Regulatory Board of the Protected Designation of Origin Kaki Ribera del Xúquer.
He stressed the "willingness and determination from producers and traders to come together under this quality standard, thereby obtaining a more prestigious brand and the appreciation from consumers."
In the same way, the Councillor pointed out that the alliance created around the PDO Kaki Ribera del Xúquer by the 13 cooperatives integrated nowadays "has also allowed for more exhaustive quality control and promotion procedures for the fruit."
"This task, which guarantees traceability, food safety and maximum quality, has a direct impact on the commercial projection of kakis, and consequently, on their demand by both the domestic and international markets."
He highlighted that around 80% of last season's production was exported, "Especially to Germany, Ireland and France, although it also started being commercialised in some Eastern European countries, like Belarus and Ukraine."
José Císcar also pointed out that the Regulatory Board of the PDO Kaki Ribera del Xúquer expects a production of approximately 90,000 tonnes, which is a 16% increase compared to last year's results.
The Vicepresident also mentioned how more than 4,800 growers are working under this quality brand, "consolidating the fruit as a profitable alternative to citrus cultivation."
Over the past decade, the acreage for kaki plantations in the province of Valencia has experienced a sustained growth, reaching close to 7.800 hectares.
Source: Lasprovincias.es