Due to the latest frosts recorded in some production areas, Switzerland has suffered severe losses in the fruit sector which could exceed 92 million Euro. The highest losses have been suffered by fruit producers. In the apple sector, losses are estimated at about 38 million Euro, while cherry growers have been hit by damages worth 23 million Euro.
This year, the cherry production could reach only a quarter of the normal volume. For apples and pears, the losses may reach a third of the volume. As for plums, prospects point to a 67 percent reduction, and for apricots this percentage will probably reach 50 percent. The situation is not expected to be as dramatic in the berry segment, with strawberries being one of the most affected products, with production falling by 20%.
Swiss consumers will find it more difficult to purchase domestic fruit, although there is no fear of a shortage of produce, which would be offset by imports.
Source: Swisscofel.ch
