The recent rainfall in Gran Canaria is expected to provide key support to agricultural production across the island's midlands and interior. According to Mercasa in the Canary Islands, the precipitation will help stabilize prices, improve crop efficiency, and sustain the quality of higher-value crops.
The rain is described as a "natural capital injection" that helps reduce market volatility for high-demand fruits such as apples and pears while lessening dependence on imports from mainland Spain and Europe. Improved water availability is expected to contribute to price stability across local produce categories.
In Las Palmas, avocado prices remain polarized, with the Hass variety averaging US$13.40 (EUR 12.45) per kilogram, while "Other Varieties" are trading near US$3.70 (EUR 3.45) per kilogram. The Fuerte variety, at US$7.40 (EUR 6.85) per kilogram, remains between both extremes. The US$9.70 (EUR 9) price gap reflects stronger market demand for the Hass variety, which continues to dominate the European premium segment.
Mango prices also highlight the influence of variety on consumer preference. Kent mangoes are selling at US$4.75 (EUR 4.45) per kilogram, compared with Tommy Atkins at US$4.10 (EUR 3.85). This pattern indicates the local market's sensitivity to pulp quality and texture, driving renewed interest in varietal improvement and genetic selection in the region.
The rainfall has also eased drought-related concerns for potato growers. Effective irrigation timing and soil moisture are critical for maintaining tuber size and quality. Prolonged dry conditions had raised fears of yield losses and price increases. The recent rain provides a stabilizing effect on local supply and helps moderate potential price inflation in the Canary Islands' staple crops.
Improved water availability will also benefit avocados and citrus crops at mid and high altitudes. Increased humidity and aquifer replenishment reduce the need for costly supplemental irrigation, keeping production expenses stable and supporting the fruit's firmness and size. This contributes to maintaining competitive local prices for crops that typically command premium value due to freshness and proximity to the market.
By securing production levels for key crops such as potatoes, bananas, avocados, and citrus fruits, the rainfall reduces the need for imports and helps mitigate inflationary pressure on the consumer food basket in southern Gran Canaria.
Source: Maspalomas
