Farmers in the Krasnodar Region of Russia forecast a rise in apple prices due to a reduced harvest, according to Nikolay Shcherbakov, the CEO of the “Cuban Gardeners” union. Russian grocery chains find it more advantageous to collaborate with Western producers due to their lower prices and consistent supply. Shcherbakov expressed this viewpoint, suggesting that the influx of imports should be limited, and the Russian market should be permanently closed to foreign apples.
According to the expert, Moldova remains the primary apple supplier to the Russian market. However, Shcherbakov speculated that apples from Poland and other EU countries are being sold under the guise of Moldovan fruit.
Regarding domestic orchards, the cold spring, hailstorms, and tree diseases have impacted this year's harvest in the Krasnodar Region. As a result, the apples have suffered in terms of appearance. The production costs have increased while the yield has decreased compared to the previous year. Shcherbakov believes that this will lead to higher apple prices.
Nikolay Shcherbakov expressed his confidence in the necessity of constructing refrigeration facilities and modern warehouses in the country. He estimates that this endeavour will take about 10 years. “The mass harvest collection is about to begin. Those without fruit storage facilities will ultimately cease their involvement in horticulture,” the CEO added. In Nikolay Shcherbakov's opinion, horticulture in the country is becoming economically unviable.
source: yugopolis.ru
