Gala increase 7% to 1,189,000 tonnes
Slight increase in European top fruit production
WAPA released its Northern Hemisphere crop estimate at the 37th Prognosfruit Conference. The 2013 apple production in the EU is expected to increase by 7% compared to the 2012 crop while European pear growers are predicting an 18% increase.
The 2013 European crop forecast for apples is 10,798,000T. This is 6% higher than the average for the last three years. In regard to varieties, Golden Delicious production will rise by 11% to 2,545,000T. Gala will increase by 7% to 1,189,000T. Idared will be up by 8% at 1,060,000T, while Red Delicious will be up by 5% to 569,000T. In some other Northern Hemisphere countries apple crops are also expected to increase compared to last year. The USA expects an increase of 15%, Turkey will be up 10% and Ukraine 5%. Production will decrease in China (-8%), and Russia (-14%).
The European pear crop in 2013 will reach 2,236,000T. The forecast crop is expected to be 2% lower than the average crop of the last three years. Of the major varieties, Conference will see its production increase by 14% to 794,000T and Abate F will increase by 20% to 308,000T. William BC will decrease by 10% to 279,000T. Elsewhere in the Northern Hemisphere the USA is predicting a slight increase (4%), Turkey (4%), and Ukraine (2%). The estimate for China is -5% and Russia -14%.
Click here for more figures by country and variety
Initial indications are that, due to a late flowering and cool spring, harvest will start later than normal in much of Europe. Most are expecting the harvest to be delayed by one to two weeks while others are as much as a month later than normal. An update of the forecast will be made at the beginning of September to account for any new developments which are more likely this year due to the late start.
Despite the increased volume of apples, total supply to the fresh market is expected to remain similar to last year with more volume expected for processing. Fruit size is expected to be slightly down on average. Fruit internal quality is expected to be good. However the difficult growing season has resulted in above average weather markings.
The season in Europe is expected to start with good market conditions as small remaining Southern Hemisphere stocks clear quickly. There is expected to be no overhang of Southern Hemisphere fruit by the time harvest is in full swing.
For more information, please visit: www.wapa-association.org