"We saw a large increase in the products coming through from Egypt, especially with key products such as early potatoes, table grapes and oranges. Despite the season coming to an end for table grapes, we are still handling 25 containers a week and table grapes coming through the port are up by 20% compared to last year," shared Milena Slobko-Jerman.
"In general up to now we’ve received in the season 2017/18 about 3700 x 40’reefer containers with various fruit and vegetables from Egypt, which is almost 1000 containers more than in the season 2016/17 due to improved container services between the Egyptian ports and the Port of Koper. The transit time from Egypt is only 3-4 days, and the customs cleared goods can be delivered to various final destinations in Europe, including Scandinavia soon after vessel berthing."
Although Israel and Egypt remain the main origins for exports to Europe, Milena said that it seems that Israel has lost some of its position in Europe.
"The EU market has become less attractive for Israeli importers, so there has been a decline in the amount of fresh goods being sent there, primarily for peppers. Apples from Poland, which has developed since the Russian ban, continues to be a huge market. Although there was a decline this year, with around 5% less truckloads this season after frosts hit apple production across Europe, this was only a temporary situation," assures Milena.
In terms of imports to Europe, the main receiving markets for perishable goods received at Koper remain; Germany, Netherlands, UK, Denmark, Austria, Ireland and Scandinavia. Although active in the port for almost 20 years, the Czech Republic and Poland have developed significantly in the last few years. Both countries have improved potato and citrus volumes and more and more traders are starting to source their produce directly from the producer.
For more information:
Milena Jerman
Port of Koper
Tel:+386 56 656 909
Email: bratislava.office@luka-kp.si
www.luka-kp.si