The picking has resulted in big yields in Dutch top fruit. However, Paul Peters of Gebr. Peters Fruithandel does not expect any problems with selling the crop. "During Fruit Attraction in Madrid, I spoke to Turkish apple exporters, and they are facing major frost damage this year after three nights of frost in the fruit regions. Turkey harvests about 4,500,000 tons of apples in a 'normal' year, which is more than Poland. The significantly lower apple harvest in Turkey is definitely going to have a positive impact on our export opportunities, as Turkey is usually an exporter and is now short on its own supply. Turkish pear varieties are also sold in Europe. If the Turk can't sell it, there are opportunities for us."
© Gebr. Peters Fruithandel
"The big advantage is that we have good quality, taste, and colour in the Netherlands. Countries in southern Europe face problems with fire blight, while a country like Italy has its own challenges. I therefore see the sales opportunities as positive for our fruit. At the moment, we can't do much with the price yet, but demand is already emerging, including from distant destinations," Paul continues.
© Gebr. Peters Fruithandel
"The demand for pears is simply there. The apple harvest is excellent, especially of the Elstar, but if export opportunities for varieties like Jonagold/Prince, Pinova, and Golden to countries such as Egypt or India now arise in addition to domestic sales, I see the season looking bright. But we must not forget to sell. After all, too high a stake is always knocked back. Better sold with remorse, than kept with remorse," Paul concludes.
© Gebr. Peters Fruithandel
For more information:
Paul Peters
Gebr. Peters Fruithandel
Culekampseweg 2
4031 JG Ingen
Mob: +31 (0) 6 51 11 13 17
[email protected]