The summer fruit campaign is in full swing, but very small quantities of apricots are being recorded. According to the analysis of Rocco Viggiano, one of the founders of the Fevi Frutta fruit and vegetable wholesale company in Policoro (Matera), very low volumes of apricots were harvested and sold during the first month of the campaign.
© Fe.Vi. Frutta Srl
"We had not seen such a low campaign in years. The situation has resulted in an estimated drop in yields of 60 to 70%. After the decrease that involved the early cultivars, this drop is also affecting the medium-late varieties. Although more is being harvested at the moment, volumes remain far lower than expected. Varieties that are currently being harvested include Flopria, Orange Rubis, and Pricia," points out Rocco Viggiano.
© Fe.Vi. Frutta Srl
The reasons for this difficult year can be traced back to the adverse weather conditions. "Both the flowers and the fruits were compromised by prolonged humidity and heavy spring rains."
As a result, apricot prices are significantly higher than in the previous marketing year. "Whereas in 2024 farmers got 1 €/kg for the product in the field, this year we did not go below 1.50 €/kg, while the minimum starting price to wholesale markets was 2 €/kg. The product on the plants continues to be scarce."
This scenario is inevitably reflected in the markets, which, according to the Basilicata operator, "appear half-empty as far as apricots are concerned. Demands continue to be high, but the supply of apricots in Italy (and elsewhere) is reduced".
© Fe.Vi. Frutta Srl
As far as nectarines and peaches are concerned, production volumes are within the norm. "The first Percoca peaches appeared on the markets a few days ago. However, due to the general shortage of supply and the resulting high prices not only of apricots, but also of strawberries and cherries, nectarines, peaches, and Percoca peaches are also registering much higher prices than in the past".
For more information:
FE.VI.FRUTTA S.R.L.
Via Bellini,10
75025 Policoro (MT) - Italy
+39 0835 902998
[email protected]
[email protected]
