The average price of Polish apples rose by 46%, to €187.2 /ton, in the last six months (Jan ’22-Jun ’22), compared to the previous six-month average (Jul ‘21- Dec ‘21). EU apple prices rose in line with supply curtailments amid the Russia-Ukraine geopolitical conflict, which is impacting global trade and driving inflation, particularly in the EU.
According to the World Apple and Pear Association (WAPA), apple stocks on 1st May 2022 were up 17.1% year-on-year in Europe, at 1.54 mln tons. The increase is largely concerning Red Jonaprince, Jonagold, Gala and Golden Delicious apple varieties, which all rose by over 25% y-o-y. Despite the high stock levels, market uncertainty surrounding the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to intensify supply fears and keep prices firm.
EU apple exports are forecast to decline slightly, by 1.3% y-o-y to 1.07 mln tons in the 2021/22 MY, in line with tighter supplies in Italy and France. Trade has also been impacted by an embargo on EU apple exports to Belarus, introduced in retaliation to sanctions, which has left surplus supplies on the market, particularly in Poland (the top EU apple producer).
Source: mintecglobal.com