At markets in Šibenik, white table grapes are sold for €6 (US$6.55) per kilogram, while in Zadar and Dubrovnik prices reach €7 (US$7.65). In Pula, the same fruit costs €8 (US$8.75) per kilogram, nearly the same as veal shoulder, ribs, or neck in supermarkets. Consumers in Zagreb report frustration, as even during peak season grapes rarely fall below €5 (US$5.45) per kilogram.
According to Večernji list, most grapes on offer are imported, largely from Spain, Chile, and Turkey, often of second-grade quality. On Zagreb's wholesale market, grapes are traded for €2.50–2.75 (US$2.73–3.00) per kilogram, with a nationwide average of €2.50–3.50 (US$2.73–3.82). The gap between wholesale and retail is considerable, while domestic grapes remain scarce.
Official data from the Ministry of Agriculture does not separate table grapes from wine varieties. Estimates indicate Croatia produced only 1,304 tonnes of table grapes last year on 220 hectares, averaging just under six tonnes per hectare. By contrast, imports in 2024 totaled 16,800 tonnes valued at €31.2 million (US$34.1 million), marking a 19% increase in volume and 27% rise in value compared to 2023. This means Croatia imports over 1,100% more grapes than it produces.
Supermarkets often offer lower prices than open markets. Konzum lists Chilean white grapes at €2.99 (US$3.27) per kilogram, Italian red grapes at €3.99 (US$4.36), and half a kilo of Turkish seedless grapes at €2.19 (US$2.40). Discounts can reduce prices further, with Tommy recently selling white grapes for €1.89 (US$2.07) per kilogram.
The Croatian Chamber of Commerce (HGK) reports that Italy is the largest supplier, exporting 8,600 tonnes worth €15.1 million (US$16.5 million) in 2024. Other suppliers include the Netherlands, Germany, Slovenia, Moldova, and North Macedonia. Croatia also exports small volumes, mainly to Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Hungary.
Experts point out that table grape cultivation in Croatia requires higher input than wine grapes, with irrigation, hail nets, bird protection, and intensive manual labour all increasing costs. Table grapes are more vulnerable to weather fluctuations, and limited suitable climate zones restrict production.
Globally, China, Chile, Peru, the United States, Turkey, and Spain are leading producers, with China dominating exports. For Croatian consumers, reliance on imported grapes remains high, with domestic production unable to meet demand and retail prices staying elevated.
Source: CroatiaWeek
