"Taiwan is an excellent market for Spanish garlic. Currently, it is the Asian country with the highest demand for seasonal garlic. The peak in the demand is reached from July to September, but the demand for this product is very high," says Diego Villegas, manager at Sybaris Market.
"The quality of Spanish garlic is indisputable, and that is what the new export channels, retailers and consumers are looking for and demanding. But what seems obvious to the customer is not always easy to implement at the production level," says Diego Villegas.
"Moreover, we cannot focus only on quality; the presentation is also key. China is a clear example. The workforce there delicately handles the garlic as many times as necessary until it has an unpolluted, aesthetically attractive appearance. Although Spanish garlic has a better taste, nutritional properties and quality, having an appealing outer appearance and presentation is now an unavoidable requirement," explains Diego Villegas.
Sybaris sells White Spring garlic, Violet Spring garlic and Purple garlic in different formats: 20 kg and 10 kg bags, 20 kg and 10 kg boxes, meshes, etc. "For the United Kingdom, we prepare 5 kg and 4 kg sacks and the special 7.5 kg box. Each country has its own needs which must be met. This customization is not an extra, but a basic service."
The company exports all year round to destinations in Asia, Africa and America.
"The destinations are chosen depending on each country's campaigns and production periods. When a given country has local production or it can get its imports from another supplier close by, Spain stops exporting its garlic there. In October, for example, Brazil stops importing and gets its supply from domestic producers and from neighboring Argentina," says Diego Villegas.
Some markets are even more demanding and have greater potential than Asia
Diego says that prices are currently good and stable. "In China, production volumes are stable. Also, its high tariffs are beneficial to Spanish garlic. America and Oceania are thought to be the most demanding markets in terms of quality and flavor, but the truth is that all countries demand very high quality."
"Spanish producers must always aim to offer a consistent quality and service. To this end, this campaign we have opted for meshes that have been very successful in America," says Diego.
Good campaign and opening of channels
"Purple garlic is gaining ground in countries like the United Kingdom. Its strong and unique taste is appreciated. The Spring is successful in Taiwan. This country, along with Brazil and the US, has imported a lot of Spanish garlic compared to previous years," says the manager. of Sybaris Market.
"The advantage of garlic over other products is that, in the right conditions, it can be stored optimally for a long time. Also, its transport is not as tricky as that of other vegetables."
"The demand for organic garlic is still very small, but we are able to supply it," says Diego Villegas.
Regarding Brexit, Diego Villegas says that the demand will not stop, but the situation will make the price negotiations tougher. "Once a price has been set, it will be very difficult to increase it, since the cost is higher due to the exchange with the pound sterling."
Mónica and Diego Villegas, managers of Sybaris Market
Sybaris Market is a young Valencian company devoted to the export and marketing of garlic, onions, citrus fruits, fresh fruits and vegetables. It will be present at the upcoming Fruit Attraction.
For more information:
Diego Villegas, Export Manager
Sybaris Market S.L.
Avda. De la Generalitat 4- 9
46138 Rafelbunyol, Valencia. Spain
T: +34 655 70 99 04
diego@sybarismarket.com
www.sybarismarket.com