It is rather a positive moment for papayas, as the produce - especially the high-quality Brazilian Formosa variety - is lacking.
"In this scenario, Sicilian papayas could have the great opportunity of finding their place on the market. We have been in contact with Dal Tropico for some time, a company specialized in Italian tropical products, but we might start working with them now, as the market is potentially ready to welcome Sicilian papayas with the right organoleptic qualities," explains Giorgio Donnarumma, sales manager at Nuovafrutta.
"Sicily has the possibility of taking advantage of the bad moment the Formosa variety is experiencing in Brazil. Two terrible months are ahead as Brazilian papayas will be lacking, but this could open an interesting window for Sicilian producers, who must seize the situation and supply produce with a suitable quality."
Donnarumma adds that "next week, we will ship the first load of Sicilian papayas. We will see how they will do on the market, as quality has improved a lot over the years. Clients are indeed interested but, in a globalized sector such as that of tropical fruit, Sicily is not the only origin available."
Avocado and limes: downward market
"As I had envisioned, both the Hass avocado and lime markets have registered a considerable drop. Limes dropped below €5, while green Hass avocadoes from Peru can be purchased at €5-6. While last year the drop of Hass prices occurred in early August, this year it happened in late May-early June, which is causing a few worries."
"Mangoes coming in by sea are stable at €6-6.50 kg. The ginger market is also rather calm: prices are high and the Brazilian campaign has just started."
According to the sales manager, there are no products doing better than others. The terrible situation was made worse also by the bad weather with continuous rain, which is not favoring consumption.
Photos provided by Giorgio Donnarumma