While Spanish garlic exports increased in 2014, reaching 127,976 tonnes, compared to 98,467 tonnes in 2013, the price obtained is less encouraging, with an average drop of 30 cents, falling from 1.60 Euro per kilo to 1.30 €/kg, according to data of the Asociación Mesa Nacional del Ajo (National Garlic Association).
In the EU, exports increased by 21% in volume, from 76,572 to 92,464 tonnes, with the best results being achieved in France, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Portugal, Romania and Bulgaria. Average prices dropped from 1.70 to 1.50 €/kg.
The 46% increase in exports to third markets is also worth noting. These have gone from 25,453 to 35,500 tonnes, although prices have dropped from an average of 1.10 €/kg down to 1.00 €/kg. Morocco and Algeria register increases, while the United States is listed as a new destination. The increase in export volumes to Brazil is quite notable; however, prices are alarmingly low in the cases of Morocco and Algeria (0.70 €/kg) and Brazil (0.80 €/kg).
Drop in garlic imports
Regarding imports, Spain's purchases from the EU and third countries have dropped, from 7,148 to 5,365 tonnes. The price has also fallen, from 1.60 to 1.10 €/kg.
The EU's imports have dropped by 34% in volume, from 3,243 to 2,798 tonnes. The price has also dropped, from 1.70 to 1.30 €/kg, with France as the largest supplier.
Import volumes of non-European garlic fell by 14%, from 3,900 to 2,518 tonnes, and its price dropped from 1.40 to 1.00 €/kg.