The early potato campaign in Andalusia, which is about 60% through, is on track to recording a drop of around 30% in the production.
"A spell of rain during Easter caused the appearance of pests, such as mildew. This, together with the impact of the wireworm and the lack of phytosanitary products to combat them is causing significant crop losses," say representatives from the Association of Fruit and Vegetable, Dried Fruit and Flower and Plant Producers and Exporters of Andalusia, Asociafruit, which accounts for 80% of the region's potato production and marketing companies.
"The harvest is underway at a quick pace, despite the shortage of laborers, which has been remarkable this campaign, and despite the soil being compacted by the spring rains, which slows down the harvest. However, the good quality and high demand in the markets, both national and European, are keeping prices at good levels," say Asociafruit representatives.
"If everything continues as it has so far, the campaign will finish within 15 days," they say.
For more information:
ASOCIAFRUIT
Av. Málaga 16,
41004 Seville, Spain
T: +34 954 42 42 98
[email protected]
www.asociafruit.com