The ANP – Rocha Pear Producers Association presents the information gathered from its Associates regarding the quantity harvested in 2023 and the composition in terms of calibers.
Rocha Pear harvest by ANP Members in 2023 was 107,111 tons, which represents a decrease of approximately 16,563 tons compared to 2022 and 109,279 tons compared to 2021, resulting in a decrease of 13% (2022) and 51% (2021), respectively. It is estimated that the production of ANP Members corresponds to 89% of the total National Production, with a total of approximately 120,000 tons of Rocha Pear harvested nationally in 2023 (Associates and Non-Associates of ANP).
Total Rocha Pear production received by Associates and total estimated national production, with ANP Associates representing 86% until 2019 and 89% from 2020. Data provided by ANP Associates.
About the composition of the harvested volume in terms of calibers, a similar distribution is estimated between calibers less than 60 mm (51%) and above 60 mm (49%). Representing a slight improvement compared to 2022, it falls short of the 2021 record when more than 63% of the fruits had a caliber above 60 mm. Regarding pears under 55 mm, it is expected that they will represent 22% of the total in 2023.
Regarding the quantity harvested in the current campaign, this is the second-worst year for Rocha Pear since 2010, with only 2012 recording a lower harvest volume. This decline is due to adverse weather conditions at several crucial points in the production cycle, resulting in a decrease in the number and caliber of fruits and a high incidence of diseases, culminating in sunburn in the first week of August. The reduction in authorized active substances in pest and disease control has posed an additional challenge, similar to what is observed in other crops and in other European countries.
This situation of two consecutive years of production decline puts enormous pressure on the sustainability of the sector, which is reflected in the potential loss of income for all those involved in the chain, and which will have an impact on the prices charged, as there may not be enough resources to support a new campaign.
It is important to note the role that Rocha Pear plays in providing fresh fruit: nationally, when a normal harvest is possible, it can supply the Portuguese consumers for most of the year; in the external market, it has been in the top five of national fruit exports for several years.
Despite the lower quantity of fruit available, the sector remains committed to the valorization of Rocha Pear, especially the collective brand "Rocha do Oeste," providing fruits of excellent quality and food safety to consumers in the domestic and foreign markets. The Association and its Associates are also working to find solutions to overcome current and future challenges, involving the Central and Local Administration and other entities related to Pera Rocha do Oeste.
For more information: 
Pera Rocha
Tel.: +351 91 678 10 11 I
Email: [email protected]
www.perarocha.pt
