The new watermelon season in Greece is coming up, and Nasos Zafirakis, director of Zafirakis Fruits, hopes it’ll be a less difficult season than the last one: “The previous watermelon season was very complicated. During the entire season the production was very good, both in terms of quality as well as the volumes. As such, the season started with very good prospects, the demand for watermelons was strong early on as well. However, during the season we had to deal with a lot of problems; workers, transport and competition with other countries. This year, we expect to find solutions for these problems. That said, the working personnel issue could be even larger this year than it was last season.”
As the cost of production has increased, volumes are expected to decrease this year, Zafirakis explains. “This year, the watermelon quantities are approximately 10 to 15 per cent lower compared to last year. The two main reasons for this are the increased cost of cultivation and, as I mentioned above, the possible lack of labor force. It’s difficult to predict what markets will be strong ahead of time, but last year a new market with several presentations was the Ukrainian market. So let's see how that market will go for us this year!”
When looking at the prices of the watermelons, the Greek exporter will have to look at what competing countries are doing: “The price always depends on the request and the available quantities. But never forget weather. Sunny and hot days in Europe help to sell watermelons in a fast manner. In general, the season should start with high prices and during season these prices will decrease step by step. Many times Moroccan or Italian watermelons are cheaper, so we must follow the market. We wish to have a good season, with hopefully few problems to resolve. I hope the farmers produce the required volumes and good quality, as well as achieve good sales, because our country needs farmers and agriculture in general,” Zafirakis concludes.
For more information:
Nasos Zafirakis
Zafirakis Fruit
Tel: +30 2622061765
Mob: +30 6937427265
Email: zafirakisfruits@gmail.com
www.zafirakisfruit.gr