"Madagascan product which tends to be a bit cheaper, and doesn't eat quite as well as the South African product, put pressure on the market," explained Chris Easby from Halls. "Normally we would avoid this as our season is a bit later, but due to the early arrivals from South Africa, by 10-14 days, prices have been a bit under pressure."
Madagascar is now finished and the South African fruit will have the market to itself, nevertheless the prices are taking a bit of time to get back to normal.
As with most products there is a dip in demand after Christmas, but according to Chris, demand has picked up dramatically this week.
"The drought in the growing regions has had an impact on the season," said Chris. "I think volumes will be around normal but the fruit has come in in a shorter period of time - normally we would be able to stretch the season out a bit. Litchi is such a volatile product and it is not one which can stay on the tree, it has to be picked when it is ready. The South African litchis should end around week 6, earlier than normal."
For more information:
Chris Easby
Halls
Tel: +44 1892 723488
Email: chris@hlhall.co.uk
www.halls.co.za