"Netherlands: "I expect a stable top fruit market"

The estimate of top fruit stock published yesterday by the Productschap Tuinbouw is, according to Zweer van Aalsburg of Fruitmasters, reasonably in line with the quantities harvested and cleared up to now. "The prices fluctuated quite a bit in the beginning, but now the market is reasonably stable and for the coming weeks I also expect a stable top fruit market."

At the moment the price of Jonagold is about 70 cents and Elstars are sold at

90/95 cents (75ths) and 85 cents for the 70ths. The price of pears is about

80 cents for 55ths, 85 cents for 60ths and 90 cents for 65ths. "Traditionally it is now more the time for Elstar and Jonagold sales will receive a boost in the new year," Zweer continues.

"Sales are mainly locally. Export at the moment is mainly to far-away destinations. From 1 January the levy will be removed again from the export to Russia and the export to Russia will increase again. Pears are already going to Russia, but these are normal quantities," Zweer explains. "Also sales of club varieties are doing well. With Kanzi and Rubens sales will start from week 39 and with effect from next week sales of Junami will start."

For more information:
Zweer van Aalsburg
Fruitmasters
Tel: 0031 345 578 808
Cell: 0031 651 429 504
www.fruitmastersholland.nl