The aftermath of the disappointing garlic harvests in Spain and China continues to shape the market, reports Jörg Sturmberg of Jersa Fruchtimport Ltd. "Due to the significant harvest losses in Spain, there have been increased imports from China and Argentina. Specifically in China, the required quantities had to be imported through other licensees to ensure availability. At the same time, it was very challenging to adjust the prices upwards, which we have managed to do to a minimal extent in the end."
Not only in Spain, but also in China, there were unnecessary precipitations during the harvest season, which negatively impacted the yields. Sturmberg: "Spain, in particular, had to sort out a lot of produce, which led to the Spanish season running out very early. Consequently, we are expecting a decrease in cultivated areas in Spain this year. First, because there is less seed of good quality available and second, because a lot of money has been lost in all garlic-growing regions. Weather-related damages have activated agricultural insurance, but this will only partially compensate for the losses."
On March 17, Jersa celebrated its 38th anniversary. The company, based in Bergisch Gladbach, is dedicated to the import and distribution of garlic.
The last, late-season garlic from China is now being shipped and, according to Sturmberg, is of very good quality. Overall, the volume is about five to ten percent above the previous year's level. "Despite inflation, there have only been minimal price increases for garlic, especially compared to many other vegetable products. There was a sales increase around Easter, after which sales abruptly declined. We also feel a certain marketing pressure with the fresh garlic from Egypt that we are currently offering." After the Egyptian campaign concludes in early May, it will seamlessly transition to young garlic from Spain.
Left: Solo garlic in a box, right: Chinese garlic in a 200g package. Due to economic efficiency, the Spring variety is predominantly cultivated in Spain, while Morado garlic plays a more complementary role. White garlic has lost significance over the past years.
Satisfactory yields in domestic cultivation
In addition to the main volumes from the renowned garlic-producing countries, Sturmberg also offers smaller quantities from Germany and the Netherlands during the season. "Especially in the Palatinate region, last year's yields were very satisfactory. The domestic producers, due to the aforementioned weather conditions, even had better qualities than the Spanish." Sturmberg also sees further growth potential in consumption. "The per capita consumption is gradually increasing, but is still far from the level of other European countries. Nevertheless, niche products like black garlic, which we source ourselves from Spain, are gradually gaining importance. In this respect, we are on the right track."
Images: JERSA Fruchtimport GmbH
More information:
Jörg Sturmberg
JERSA Fruchtimport GmbH
Zum Scheider Feld 40
51467 Bergisch Gladbach
Phone: +49 (0)2202 980 860
Fax: +49 (0)2202 980 866
E-Mail: jersa@jersa.de
www.jersa.de