Egyptian strawberry supply has been much higher than in the previous season, and prices are lower, says Eman Mardini, Deputy CEO of Egyptian fresh produce exporter El Eman Trading: "The our strawberry production this year has seen an increase of 50 per cent compared to the previous year. We're currently seeing strong demand from European countries as well as from the Far East, with suitable prices for the produce. Although prices in the previous season were a little better, as they started with 20 euros per box, which contains 10x250g. This season started with prices that were about 30 per cent lower."
© El Eman Trading
High costs throughout the entire process bring difficulties to the Egyptian strawberry exporters, Mardini explains. "We had come challenges that started from the nursery and plantation, at the beginning of the season. After that period, the weather was perfect, which caused the season to start earlier than last season. However, we're still seeing a high cost for the entire production process, including a shortage in available space for flights to Europe and the Far East."
© El Eman Trading
With the higher supply, there's also quite a few strawberry producers that are trying out their luck on the export markets, but Mardini states they're undercutting the market, making it hard for everyone: "Because of the high supply, new players have decided to export their produce and are offering low prices, which is making the season much more difficult. Overall this has made it a difficult season, but we hope the market will be better in the next three weeks, because of the Christmas season coming up," she concludes.
© El Eman Trading
For more information:
Eman Mardini
El Eman Trading
Tel: +20 10 00 54 41 20
[email protected]
www.elemantrading.com
