Catalonia's pome fruit sector won't reach its productive potential this year, mainly because of the different hailstorms -April 19 (Lleida, 3,397 hectares, the most virulent to date), April 26 (Lleida, specific impact), May 4-5 (Lleida, 752 ha), May 9 (Lleida, 30 ha), May 13 (Lleida, 130 ha and Girona), June 19 (Lleida, 1,160 ha), and July 12 (Lleida, 195 ha)- that have affected the region this year.
"While some growers have been seriously affected by hail, the early hailstorms have allowed us to forecast a season with acceptable volumes and excellent fruit quality. This heralds a good season. The cold rooms are empty due to the previous season's low production. Nothing suggests there will be a collapse in the markets; everything points to an orderly and pleasant year," stated Manel Simon, Managing Director of Afrucat.
© Afrucat
Joan Serentill, president of Afrucat's Apple and Pear Committee, said the pear was destined for the local market and that the good size and sugars of the fruit would be well received by consumers who are demanding in terms of size.
Rosa Altisent, DARPA's Director General for Agriculture and Livestock, thanked Afrucat for its statistical work and highlighted the Department's willingness to support production, especially in these adverse weather conditions: "We have mobilized resources to deal with the losses caused by hailstorms this spring and last season's drop in pear production. The Department's contribution to Agroseguro has doubled, and aid to the ADVs has increased."
Apple production
Catalonia is expected to produce 60,790 tons of apples this year. That is 4% less than last year and 3% more than the average of the last 5 years. Despite the recovery, apple production is far from its 200 million kilos potential, and remains at figures similar to those of the last 5 years.
Lleida is expected to produce 170,290 tons of apples in 2025, which is 1% more than last year and 6% more than the average of the past 5 years. Production in Girona has suffered a slight decrease because the effects of the severe drought it suffered are still affecting the region, and because of the alternate bearing. Lleida will account for 65% of Catalonia's apple production this year, and Girona for the remaining 34%.
Regarding varieties, the increase of the Granny group and new varieties such as the Tutti apple stand out.
Harvesting time depends on the area. However, in general, harvesting is expected to be delayed by 3 to 7 days. In some areas of Lleida, the harvest will be held on normal dates.
Pear production
This year's pear harvest forecast for Catalonia stands at 107,730 tons, 4% lower than the average of the last 5 years and 47% higher than in 2024. There's a recovery after last year's drop. However, production won't reach Catalonia's potential. The Conference variety is experiencing the biggest recovery over the past year, with a 90% increase. In some areas, the harvest is expected to be delayed by 3 to 10 days. In other areas, it will start on its usual dates. Overall, the sector expects a high level of Russeting in the Conference variety.
Lleida will produce 105,590 tons of pears this year, 3% less than the 2020-2024 average and 48% more than in 2024. Girona will produce 1,400 tons, 8% less than last year.
For more information:
Afrucat
C/ Corregidor Escofet, 64
25005 Lleida - Spain
Tel: +34 973 22 01 49
www.afrucat.com/ca/
