The end of October marks the start of the French Oscar green kiwi campaign. This year looks promising, with volumes forecast at 10,000 tons. "Primland is present in four production basins in France through partners in different regions: the Adour, Garonne, and Rhône valleys, as well as Corsica. This year, pollination conditions were favorable in the Garonne valley, resulting in a higher tonnage than last year in the same basin. Sizes should also be larger. On the other hand, the weather in the Adour valley has been less favorable. The rainfall has had an impact on volumes, which will be down slightly in this area. Overall, the national harvest is balanced and promises to reach a level comparable to that of the previous season," explains Jean-Baptiste Pinel, director of Primland.
© FreshPlazaJean-Baptiste Pinel at Fruit Attraction 2025
Less pronounced orchard mortality this year
With volumes similar to last season, the mortality phenomenon that has been affecting kiwi orchards in recent years is less marked this year, and seems to have had no impact on the volumes. "It is a relatively long process, which takes place over several years. Although we did not see any change in this area between last year and this year, we had anticipated this mortality problem by replanting new orchards, which will gradually come into production."
Volumes up for yellow and red kiwi varieties, available organically
Volumes of yellow and red kiwis are up this year, with new orchards coming into production. "We will probably reach 750 tons of Oscar Gold kiwis this season, and the first fruits will be available from the end of next week. As for Oscar Red kiwis, we will reach 50 tons this year. Unlike the Oscar Gold kiwi, which has already found its place on the market, we are still at the beginning of the Oscar Red adventure. Like the green variety, the yellow and red kiwis will also be available organically (the Oscar Gold and Red do not have the Red Label or PGI distinction, as these two quality labels are only available for green kiwis)." These two segments are also popular, with stable sales in recent years.
Green kiwi officially recognized as a health product
The year 2025 also marks a turning point in the history of kiwis. Green kiwis are now officially benefiting from a health claim within the European Union. This recognition was granted by the European Commission on July 30th, following a scientific assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). "This gives a positive outlook for our company and confirms the relevance of our decision to plant trees to ensure tomorrow's kiwi supply," according to Jean-Baptiste Pinel.
For more information:
Jean-Baptiste Pinel
Primland
www.oscar.kiwi
