Avocado cultivation is steadily growing in the Valencia Region, gradually replacing traditional crops like oranges and, more recently, kaki. While kaki remains popular internationally, its cultivated area has decreased due to challenges in managing the cotonet pest and the high costs associated with production.
In Ribera del Xúquer, the birthplace of the Rojo Brillante kaki, the shift is especially evident in the warmer regions, as some growers there are replacing their kaki plantations with tropical fruits. "Avocado is currently trendy and is replacing kaki in certain areas. In La Ribera, there are farms where it is already cultivated," stated Cirilo Arnandis, President of the DOP Kaki Ribera del Xúquer.
According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture, between 2019 and 2024, the area dedicated to kaki decreased by 10.7%, while that of avocado grew by 174.5%, as reported by the Survey on Crop Areas and Yields (ESYRCE). In absolute terms, kaki now covers 14,219 hectares, compared to 3,994 hectares for avocado.
The expansion of avocados has reignited the debate over their water needs. However, the Association of Avocado Producers (Asoproa) argues that the water needs are similar to those of citrus fruits. "Both crops require between 4,500 and 5,000 cubic meters per hectare per year," affirms Alejandro Melià, a member of the organization.
According to the grower, one hectare of citrus yields about 35,000 kilos, while a hectare of avocado produces around 12,000 kilos, but with higher profitability. "Growers are paid between 2.20 and 2.40 euros per kilo of avocado, and this crop's carbon footprint is lower thanks to the reduced use of phytosanitary treatments," he added.
Source: valenciaplaza.com
