EastFruit recently published a market report on the very difficult situation for growers and freezers in Eastern European as it relates to the main product of this sector – frozen raspberries. Now, EastFruit analysts provide a complete overview of the Moldovan market for all major berries and fruits used as raw material for freezing, as Moldova is the first country in Eastern Europe where the freezing of fruits and berries begins. The information is valid for June 17, 2023.
It is also necessary to immediately make a reservation that the market of fruit and berries use as raw material for freezing in Moldova is just beginning to form. So far, very small, even rather tiny volumes are being frozen, compared to what is sold fresh for exports and on the local market. In addition, other types of processing also still prevail in terms of raw material purchasing volumes compared to freezing.
Therefore, the price on the market of raw materials for freezing is actually formed according to the residual principle, while, for example, in Ukraine or Poland, it is the freezers that dictate the prices for individual berries, especially for the raspberries. Accordingly, in Moldova there is still no specialization into growing products specifically for the needs of freezing enterprises and there is no differentiation according to varieties that are ideal for freezing.
Strawberries
The wholesale price for fresh strawberries on the Moldovan market is 20-27 MDL per 1 kg (1.04-1.40 EUR), depending on the quality. The domestic market consumes part of the berry supplies, and the highest quality produce is exported.
The current allowable level of purchase of raw materials for freezing is estimated by local freezers at 10 MDL (0.52 EUR), therefore, manufacturers of frozen products cannot yet purchase raw materials because the price is too high.
Apricots
The apricot harvest in Moldova, as in many other countries of the region, turned out to be relatively low this season. The reasons were the frosts in the north, as well as in other regions of the country. In addition, the pollination process was also poor due to low temperatures during flowering of the orchards. Many farmers have also reported hail damage in the apricot orchards. The price of an apricot damaged by hail is now approximately 0.50-0.60 EUR per 1 kg.
Sour cherries
Tart cherries blossomed very well in Moldova. Unfortunately, this period coincided with low temperatures. Therefore, pollination was not optimal, development of fruit was uneven, as well as fruit ripening. Also in some regions, massive damage to the sour cherry crop by hail was noted. Cherry harvesting in Moldova has already begun. The initial estimated price of fresh sour cherries for exports is 27-30 MDL (1.40-1.56 EUR) per 1 kg.
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For more information: east-fruit.com