Brazilian melons are currently mostly making way for the Costa Rican production. "We received the first yellow melons from Costa Rica last week. This week we are getting the first watermelons", says Bertus Schipper of the Dutch produce wholesalers, Zoutewelle. "All in all, there has been a great transition this season."
According to this importer, the Brazilian season went pretty well. "The market for Cantaloupes was excellent from the start, until about three weeks ago. The Piel de Sapo melons began well, with a less good middle and a reasonable end. There were enough melons available from Brazil. There are also enough players on the market. So, it is something you must keep on top of."
"In the last few weeks, the Cantaloupe market went completely quiet. The cold weather did not really put people in the mood for melons. We will continue to load Piel de Sapo melons from Brazil", Bertus continues.
"Due to issues with quality, we stopped getting this variety from Costa Rica a few years ago. So far, the Brazilian fruit's quality has been good. However, since the rainy season has now started in Brazil, we need to be attentive to this."
"We have had a good Costa Rican season with good prices over the last two years. Last year, there was even a shortage at the start. That is not the case now. In total, there are about 15-20% more melons available from Costa Rica. It will not be as easy a start as previous years. Perhaps the prices will also be slightly lower", says Bertus.
"An advantage is that there are fewer players on the market that get produce Costa Rica. Our brand is also well distributed. For example, we are now already seeing a high demand from England and Ireland for large yellow melons developing. Ramadan is also earlier this year. The demand for watermelon usually climbs then", concludes the importer.
For more information:
Bertus Schipper
Zoutewelle
140 Handelsweg
2988 DC Ridderkerk
Tel: +31 (0) 180 642 364
bertus.schipper@zoutewelle.com
www.zoutewelle.com