Berriestrade news

Production and market review of frozen berries, frozen mushrooms and frozen vegetables in 2011

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0000

The situation on the market of frozen berries, mushrooms, fruits and vegetables throughout 2011 was characterized by significant changes in market conditions, due primarily to pricing for imported products.
In late 2010 and early 2011 formed deficit frozen cherries, which was due to the high demand for this berry. In early 2011, prices for frozen cherries without pits have grown to 1.7-1.8 euro / kg at plants in Poland. But the real stock of frozen cherries in the warehouses were only a few manufacturers. At the end of January and February the price of cherries in Russia increased to 110-120 rubles / kg. At the same time demand has remained at about the same level.
Fracture of the situation with frozen cherries in the wholesale market has occurred in connection with the importation of American Cherry, which was much cheaper. The price for the Polish cherries ranged at 110-115 rubles / kg, the price of U. S. cherries was not above 100 rubles / kg. The volume of imports of American frozen cherries was insignificant, but the rumor of the presence of such cherries at a price significantly below the Polish led to a temporary decline in demand for expensive Polish cherries. In addition, some manufacturers also moved temporarily to the consumption of sweet cherries, which also cost about 100 rubles / kg. In March-April 2011, the price of cherries stabilized at high levels in the range of 100-120 rubles / kg. Many market participants expect significant demand for the new harvest cherries and maintain prices at the same level. Prior to the beginning of a new crop of cherry in Poland and Serbia, prices remained in that range.
Prices in Serbia began to form at 1.4 euros / kg at a factory in Serbia. This corresponds to 80-85 $ / kg. Gradually, however, these prices have risen to 1.7 euros / kg. Prices in Poland also began to take shape 1,45-1,5 euro / kg of frozen cherries. Around the end of July and early August, there was a short-term rise in prices for frozen cherries in Poland to 1,65-1,7 euro / kg due to increased demand and purchase prices of the producers of concentrates. But just a 1-1.5 weeks, prices have returned to a level of 1,5-1,55 Euro / kg, and as a result of stabilized at this level. In Russia, prices for frozen cherries the new crop began to drop rapidly. First there was the Serbian cherry costs about 95 rubles / kg. Then he quickly dropped the price to 90 rubles / kg as soon as the beginning of a new crop of cherries in Poland. From September 2011 prices have stabilized around 90-95 rubles / kg, in October-November 2011, began to emerge from the proposals of Polish producers for frozen cherries below 1.5 € / kg. This led again to lower prices for frozen cherries to 85 rubles / kg. Periodically, the wholesale market of frozen berries appear to offer frozen cherries below 85 rubles / kg.
Changes in prices of frozen cherries in Russia have been against the background of the average harvest of cherry in terms of collection and the volume of stocks of frozen cherries in the factories in Poland. It should also be noted that the decline in prices for frozen cherries against a background of significant change in the ruble against the euro from 39 rubles/euro in August to 41.5rubles/euro in December 2011. In addition, prices of frozen cherries in the EU on the contrary rose to 1.7 euro / kg.
Also, many Polish producers predict a rise in the price of frozen cherries in 2012 due to the fact that most of the stocks of frozen cherries are under contract.
Based on the foregoing, it is projected prices for frozen cherries above

90 rubles / kg but not exceeding 100 rubles / kg. As the experience of the past in 2011, the rise in prices above 100 rubles / kg, can significantly affect the level of demand and forcing manufacturers to look for alternative products.
It was an interesting situation with the price of raspberries extra and raspberries Gris on the wholesales market. In early 2011 the price of extra raspberries was stable at 2.2-2.3 euros / kg in Poland, or 120-130 $ / kg in Russia. The price of raspberries Grice was 1.45 euro / kg at a factory in Poland or the 90-95 rubles / kg in Russia.
In August-September 2011 with the beginning of a new crop of raspberries in Serbia, there was a change in market prices for frozen raspberries. Serbian producers began selling frozen raspberries with extra 1.65 euro / kg, with a better product.
Prices of Polish raspberries fell almost immediately after the appearance of cheap Serbian raspberries. Polish producers reduced the price for extra raspberries to 1.65 euro / kg and the raspberries to Grice 1,2-1,25 Euro / kg.
In early October, Polish producers again reduced the price for frozen raspberries extra to 1.55 euro / kg and the raspberries Grice price remained unchanged until November.
In Russia, prices for raspberries and gradually began to decline with the advent of frozen raspberries next harvest.
In November, there was a new price reduction on the extra raspberries to 1.45 euro / kg and 1.05 euro / kg raspberry Gris. Until the end of 2011, data prices have stabilized and stopped at these levels. Prices of raspberries extrusion in Russia has stabilized at 105-110 rubles / kg for raspberries Grice prices also fell from 90 rubles / kg in June and July to 80 rubles / kg in November and December.
According to our data, prices in Serbia are also continuing to decline. Serbian producers are willing to sell raspberries extrusion already on 1.4 euro / kg, but on a prepaid basis. According to our data, the average stock in Serbia remain frozen raspberries extra. Therefore, most likely, the price of frozen raspberries extra stabilized at a minimum level of 1.4 euro / kg to March 2012. In April, as a rule, you can expect sales decline and the demand for frozen berries, so it is possible further drop in prices for raspberries, which can be triggered by the Serbian producers.
Prices for frozen raspberries extra in China in early August were relatively high compared with prices in Poland and Serbia. But the overall market conditions to lower prices for frozen raspberries resulted in lower prices for raspberries extra raspberries and Grice in China by the end of 2011.
The situation with frozen strawberries in the wholesale market in Russia remains volatile. In early 2011 the market volume of supply of strawberries exceeded demand. Things began to change by March 2011. Due to large amounts of stocks frozen strawberries in Russia, most vendors have started selling it at reduced prices. This has led to increased demand and increased sales of frozen strawberries at the end of Q1 2011. It seems that most vendors have implemented most of the sale of their stocks during this period.
Prices for frozen strawberries in the 1st quarter of 2011 seriously varied depending on quality. Traditionally, the wholesale market, the greatest demand is presented to the frozen strawberries 2 class. The price of strawberries 1 class at that time was formed in the range of 65-70 rubles / kg. The most expensive strawberries — frozen strawberries 15-25 mm calibrated. As a rule, at her last 2 years is relatively stable demand. Few suppliers can offer a stable quality of strawberries. The price of a calibrated strawberries 1 class of 75 rubles / kg. The price of a calibrated strawberries 1 class 25-35 mm was formed at 65-70 rubles / kg. The cheapest segment — frozen strawberries 2 class is a wide range of prices at that time from 55 to 65 rubles / kg. At the end of Q1 2011, some sellers have lowered prices for strawberries 2 class to 50 rubles / kg, which had an impact on overall demand for frozen strawberries.
At the end of Q2 2011, i. e. in May-June 2011, the deficit began to take shape strawberries. Prices for strawberries 1 class 25-35 mm, re-stabilized around 65 rubles / kg, although in April and early May, prices have dropped to 60 rubles / kg. Prices for strawberries 2 class also gradually increased to 60 rubles / kg while maintaining the upward trend in prices. At this point, it was clear that the price of strawberries in China will be even higher than last year. If in 2010, the price of 1.5 USD / kg in the port of St. Petersburg was considered expensive, then in 2011 — 1.5 USD / kg, was considered cheap already. Prices in China were formed from 1.6 USD / kg in the port of St. Petersburg. Prices rose rapidly and stabilized only about the level of 1.8-2 USD / kg depending on quality. For example, the price of frozen strawberries uncalibrated 2 class was formed at 1.65 USD / kg.
Thus, in June and July, a gradual rise in prices for frozen strawberries next harvest. In Poland, the price of strawberries is also from the very beginning of harvest grew rapidly from 1.5 euros / kg in the factories in Poland to 1.8-1.9 euro / kg.
In Russia, prices for frozen strawberries continue to behave very differently. As always in times of uncertainty in the September-October 2011, the wholesale market there were proposals for frozen strawberries at 55 rubles / kg, which is lower than last year. This in principle could not be. As before, there was an average deficit of frozen strawberries 2 class, which is especially popular in Russia. Dollar exchange rate in Russia rose from 28 rubles / dollar in August to 32 rubles / dollar in October. Obviously, prices can not fall under such conditions. In November 2011 the price of strawberries situation gradually stabilized. Prices for Chinese 2 class strawberries were formed at 70-75 rubles / kg, the price of a class of 25-35 mm, China — 75-85 rubles / kg, the price of frozen strawberries calibrated 1 class 15-25 mm Country of origin Poland — 105 -110 rubles / kg.
The situation with the prices for blackberries also remains uncertain.
According to forecasts of manufacturers, with the beginning of a new harvest of blackberries was to begin its scarcity and rising prices. The rise in prices has occurred in China. Prices in China have grown blackberries. But prices for frozen blackberries in Poland remained stable. For example, in early 2011, the price of blackberries was 1.2 euros / kg, in Russia the price of blackberries remained stable at 75-80 rubles / kg.
Prices for Chinese frozen blackberries are also consistent with market prices in Russia.
Polish producers have raised the average price for frozen blackberries in October, only temporarily till 1,25-1,3 euro / kg. Most manufacturers continue to predict a further rise in prices for frozen blackberries.
In Russia the price of blackberries began to rise in December 2011. By the end of December, prices rose an average of 90 rubles / kg, while maintaining the upward trend.
Frozen blackcurrants grown considerably in price. In January 2011 the price for frozen black currants was 0,98-1,05 € / kg on average. The price of frozen currants remained stable until the end of June 2011. In Russia, prices for frozen black currants remained stable at 60-70 rubles / kg. Since June 2011 prices began to rise gradually. On average, Polish producers have begun to raise prices for frozen black currants in June from 1 to 1.2 euros / kg. In Russia, prices also began to rise in June from 65 rubles / kg to an average of 75 rubles / kg on the average wholesale market.
In the period from June to August 2011, prices rose an average of 1.2 euros / kg to 1.8-1.9 € / kg in Poland. In Russia, prices also increased significantly from 75 rubles / kg to an average of 100-105 rubles / kg.
In autumn 2011 the price of frozen black currants relatively stabilized in Poland and in Russia at these levels.
In November-December 2011, prices for frozen black currants fell slightly in price on average from 1.9 euro / kg to 1,8-1,85 Euro / kg. Given the rise of the euro against the ruble from 39 USD / Euro in August to 41.5 rubles / euros in November and December, it's almost not influenced by wholesale prices. By the end of December, prices of frozen black currants have been established for 105-110 rubles / kg on average
Prices for frozen berries have dropped significantly compared to the 2010-2011 year.
The price for the Russian frozen cranberries dropped from 200-220 rubles / kg in winter and summer of 2011 to 120 rubles / kg in September 2011, with a gradual increase up to 140 rubles / kg in November-December 2011. At this point, the average prices in the wholesale market formed and stabilized at 140-150 rubles / kg. The price of frozen cranberries also depends on the quality of the product. The price of frozen cranberries electronic clearing established at 160-165 rubles / kg.
The weather conditions in the North West have allowed the majority of suppliers to collect fresh cranberries for longer than usual until October 2011. This suggests that the amount of cranberry harvesting must be greater than last year. Accordingly, the prices are not likely to change significantly until May-June 2012. As always during the summer period and subject to adjustment as a reduction in prices and growth. Most likely, it is possible that some small price increases before the next harvest of cranberries in September 2012.
The price of frozen lingonberries fell from 200-220 rubles / kg in early 2011 to 160-170 rubles / kg at the end of 2011. In September 2011, prices of frozen lingonberries were formed at 130-140 rubles / kg. In connection with the harvest below average, but higher than last year, and the decline in demand for frozen russian lingonberries, prices have fallen to these levels. Demand in general for frozen lingonberries also fell compared to last year. Most likely, prices will not change significantly and stabilized 160-170 rubles / kg. Rising prices for frozen lingonberries possible in the summer May-August, as most of the stocks will be sold during the winter, and most sellers will have no cranberries.
Prices for frozen blueberries to the end of 2011 reached the same marks on the average, and that at the end of 2010. Prices for frozen blueberries in the middleformed at around 170-180 rubles / kg. Prices for frozen blueberries may continue torise in 2012 due to the relatively low yield and high purchase prices. But at the sametime, be aware that proposals for all types of frozen berries continue to come from Belarus.

http://www.frozentrade.com/news/item14

Blueberries harvest statistics from Chile in the middle of january 2012

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0000

A rather moderate harvest pace has been registered in Chilean blueberries this week in comparison to last week, as high temperatures receded, leading to lower exports during Week 2, reaching 4,588 tons. However, major volumes are still being destined to the frozen industry compared to last year, mostly because quality of the last fruit of some varieties being harvested in the central-south zone does not qualify for exports.

Regarding future harvests, average activity is foreseen in the VII and VIII Regions, as unusually high temperatures are no longer being reported. Meanwhile, a faster harvest pace would probably persist in the IX Region and south, as the heat accumulation difference continues to increase regarding last season. According to the Chilean Blueberry Commission producers have faced the current harvest pace well, this foresees that orchards will be handled easily during this second stage of the season, considering that fruit looks firms with large sizes.

Exports progression reaches 58% regarding the estimate, which totals 73,986 tons, and the Chilean industry has therefore already advanced to the second half of the season.

Exports during Week 2 decreased to 4,588 tons, while regarding the previous 6 weeks, volumes reached more than 5,600 tons. With volumes exported during Week 2, shipments totaled 43,246 tons, a 1.5% difference compared to the estimate.

It should be mentioned that late varieties are already neing harvested in the South-
Central Zone and all producing areas in the South have started. This situation change in varieties seems favourable, especially because good fruit size has been seen.

The degree-days accumulation registered up to last week in the VII and VIII Regions remains stable. This means temperatures have not been higher than the average ranges during this time, and harvests would end with a moderate pace in these regions. However, the difference continues to increase in the IX and X Regions, rising by 21% and 34% regarding last year. This points out that harvests will remain shorter than during an average year for fruit left to be harvested in these regions.

North Zone (IV - V REGIONS)
Harvest ended during Week 51.

Cenrtal Zone (METROPOLITAN-VI REGIONS)
Activities are over in the Metropolitan Region, while pickings would end during this week (Wk03) in the VI Region.

South Central Zone (VII-VIII REGIONS)
VIII Region. Early and mid season varieties have already been harvested. Only some producers continue to harvest Rabbiteye and Tifblue. Progression reaches 50% for Brigitta and 30% for Tifblue in Linares. Some Brigitta is left in Parral, but nearly all volumes are being destined to the
frozen industry.

Brigitta and Legacy show 70% progression in the VIII Region. Rabbiteye is
close to 50%. High Brigitta volumes continue to be destined to the frozen
industry up to last week (Wk02), as high temperatures were reported during
previous weeks. However, fruit looks more firm this week and a lower
proportion of blueberries are being diverted to frozen.

South Zone (IX - X - XIV REGIONS)
IX Region. Varieties show a similar situation to the VIII Region, with some of
them being delayed. Brigitta and Legacy show 50% progression on average,
though a significant dispersion is seen, as some producers which are further
behind only register about 25% progression. Rabitteye reports about 30-
40% progression. Good fruit quality is seen. Some producers would start
harvesting some Elliot late this week, yet the bulk of activities is foreseen
during next week. There is almost no Duke left. Temperatures remain very
high, and harvest pace is still active. Good fruit quality and sizes are
registered.

X and XIV Region. Harvests of Brigitta and Legacy show 30% to 40%
progression, with fruit reporting good quality. These varieties would reach
their peak during this week and next one (Weeks 3 and 4), though some
producers have already ended their activities. Bluecrop is close to 70%
progression, and fruit would be harvested about two times more. Elliot has
not started yet, but is expected to slowly begin during next week, becoming
more significant by Week 6. A good harvest pace has been seen during this
year, due to good weather conditions. Duke is nearing its end, showing 90%
progression and some quality problems, which is usual during the end of the
season. Elliot would begin during this week (Wk03) in Valdivia, next week
(Wk04) in Rio Bueno and the week after that (Wk05) in Osorno.

http://www.freshplaza.com/news_detail.asp?id=91886

Cranberry prices up for growers in 2011 in the USA

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000

South Coast cranberry growers are hopeful they will receive more for their crop this year in an economy where, for the past few years, growers have barely made enough to cover their costs to produce the crop. Growers are expecting or have already received a range of 15 to 35 cents per pound. Last year, the average was around 15 cents per pound. Growers are winding down the harvest and are usually done by Thanksgiving, according to Larry Frakes, receiving stations manager with Ocean Spray, a co-op that is the nation's largest cranberry producer. In a co-op, growers own the brand and earn a return per barrel on the proceeds. Some growers who sell fresh fruit will harvest through December while there is still a market for the product.

Frakes said Ocean Spray will process approximately 138,000 barrels this year, up from 125,000 barrels last year. A barrel is 100 pounds of cranberries. Ocean Spray has about 74 grower contracts in Oregon growing on 1,100 acres, all of them along the South Coast. Ocean Spray is not the only game in town, however. About half of the South Coast's growers are considered independent and sell their berries on the open market, and 29 growers belong to a new company, the Oregon Coast Growers Co-op, which formed three years ago after many of its members left Ocean Spray over prices and politics. According to the U. S. Department of Agriculture, Oregon's crop was forecast to be up from last year's 290,000 barrels harvested, but the actual yield is turning out to be lower than last year, according to Dan Boyle, general manager for OCGC. That number is significantly lower than 2009, when 430,000 barrels were harvested.

Dave Haueter, who owns 14 acres and takes care of another 10 at the end of Seven Mile Road, said his crop is about the same as last year. «The younger fields are up and the more mature fields are down,” said Haueter, who is a member of the OCGC. Haueter, who's been in the business for 12 years, said the price is «creeping its way back up.” The cranberry industry along the South Coast has seen a wide price differential over the years, and has ranged from a high of about $1.50 cents per pound to a low of around 5 cents a pound. The Haueters had a profitable year about four years ago, right before the economy crashed, Haueter said. Ocean Spray growers said this year that growers in the «A-pool,” mostly longtime growers, are receiving 30 cents per pound, while those in their «B-pool” will get about 15 cents per pound. Dave Haueter said the A-pool is sold to make Ocean Spray products, including juice, dried cranberries, sauce and other products, and the B-pool fruit is sold on the commodity market, as is the crop from independent growers.

Frakes said Ocean Spray freezes its berries at a plant in Eugene, and that crop is sold throughout the year for the company's products. Bandon's berries are especially prized for juice because of their bright red color. While some growers receive payment on delivery, others are paid every few months as the crop is sold. Boyle said the juice concentrate price is up from last year, which is a good indicator that growers will make more this year. Ty Vincent, whose family was with Ocean Spray for 40 years, is now a member of OCGC. The Vincent family has 30 acres on Croft Lake Lane. Vincent said his crop is about the same as last year, but he knows of growers whose bogs produced more this year. Pollination was a big factor, Vincent said. «We didn't have a spring, so we didn't get the pollination at the time we needed,” he said.

Vincent explained that the if the buds that the cranberry vines produce aren't pollinated right away they die and rot. Heavy rains in mid-May prevented some of the buds from getting pollinated, though some growers in some areas had no problems. «There are many micro-climates along the South Coast,” Vincent explained. «We did get nice weather later, but it was too late. Timing is important.” Vincent said he feels optimistic about this year's harvest. «The crop was OK and the prices are coming up, so that's a good trend,” he said.

Source: bandonwesternworld. com

Mexico is new potential supplier of blueberries for the USA market

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000

The area planted in Mexico grew 600% in the last five years and has the advantage of being right next to the U. S., which buys about 85% of what is produced in Chile.

The manager of the Blueberry Growers' Committee of Chile, Andre Armstrong, said to Chilean media that they are aware of the situation and noted that «Mexico can be a potential competitor for Chile in blueberries when we think of the U. S. market."

Blueberry crops in Mexico rose from 60 hectares in 2005 to over 400 last year, yet Chile has nearly 13,000 hectares planted, this is just a signal to be alert, he said.

Along with the advantages of Mexico being next to the United States and having conditions to produce high quality fruit, the northern country «has established state programs such as in Jalisco to push the development of the business," according to Campo Magazine.

However, the alert for a possible drop in shipments of Chilean blueberries to the United States must taken with caution, Armstrong said, adding that in Mexico the fruit industry «is new and has yet to be developed."

«The surface is not significant and the results are varied and we do not expect to have major changes in the next five years» he said.

The agricultural attaché of the Embassy of Chile in Mexico, Hector Echeverria, said on his part that there is no danger of a shift of Chilean products of the U. S. market as Mexican blueberry programs are just starting.

Source: Informador

Blueberry yields have declined in Nova Scotia, Canada

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000

A study by the Department of Agriculture indicates blueberry yields in the past three years have declined substantially in Nova Scotia. The department says a study is required to understand why the decrease is occurring. The Wild Blueberry Producers Association of Nova Scotia's Peter Rideout indicates production has declined in the province from 15 million kilograms in 2009 to 13 million last year to 12.7 million in 2011.

During the association's annual general meeting in Truro on Saturday, Rideout said the cause of the decline is unclear and the department intends to look at what's happening in Quebec and New Brunswick, where yields are up. He added demand for wild blueberries remains strong but that means countries in other parts of the world have started to get more involved with blueberry production.

Source: metronews. ca

The Pacific Norhtwest, a region of North America, picked 20% more raspberries than last year

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000

The Pacific Northwest, a region in the northwest of North America, picked 20% more raspberries than last year (it was then 37,768 tons). But this is not all, it was at the same time the best result of the past ten years. The total raspberry harvest in the states of Washington, Oregon (both in the United States) and the Canadian province British Columbia was 45,234 tons this year. Good weather conditions, an increase in cultivation area and new raspberry varieties caused the above mentioned increase in harvested quantity, according to the 'Washington Red Raspberry Commission'. Especially the raspberry variety Meeker was planted more in 2010, with 60% of the total number of plantings, followed by the varieties Wakefield, Chemainus, Willamette and Cascade Bounty. Looking at the Pacific Northwest states separately Washington produced the largest part of the harvest, namely 32,764 tons. Oregon supplied 2,264 tons and the Canadian province of British Columbia 10,206 tons.

Author: Gerard Lindhout
Copyright: www.freshplaza.com

Expected good cherry harvest in Alicante

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Cherry producers from Alicante start next week's campaign with a good forecast. The harvest, as it was predicted, will be around the 8 million kilos, as long as the good climate conditions continue.

Last year wasn't that good for cherries from Alicante, as a number of negative factors ended up in a harvest around 2 million kilos. Predictions for the present exercise are much more encouraging, since from every prediction the production of 8 million kilos could be reached, according to Marcos Simón, president for the Regulatory Committee of the origin denomination «Montaña de Alicante».
It's expected that the harvesting will start next week, which means a delay regarding the dates initially predicted. The president of ASAJA Alicante, Eladio Aniorte, explained that in March rain and smog affected the normal development of the cherry. «Although, we're not having bad weather. The heat registered in the following days cheered up the blossoming of the fruits», he said.
Harvesting will be done during the whole month of March in the mountain regions of the province, with lower temperatures and higher humidity. We're talking mainly about Agres, Planes, Beneixama, Beniarrés, Benillup, Benimarfull, Biar, Castalla, Cocentaina, Confrides, Cuatretondeta, Gaianes, Gorga, Ibi, Jijona, L'Orxa, Millena, Monóvar, Muro, Penàguila, Pinoso, Tollos, Almudaina, Alcoy, Vall d'Alcalà, Vall d'Ebo, Vall de Gallinera and Villena.

Exporting to Latin America
An important part of the cherry production, depending on the harvest, is destined to export and this year, apart from traditional markets in the EU, it's expected that production will also start reaching Latin America.

Presently, cherries from the province reach Italy, France, England, Switzerland, Germany, Belgium and Eastern European countries. According to Eladio Aniorte, «they ate our cherries last year in Lithuania».

With this campaign, producers are trying to consolidate their position in the traditional countries, but they're not closing the doors to new areas. Despite the fact this fruit is destined for the European Union, is very likely that a effort will be made to introduce the fruit to Latin America.

«Cherries sell very well. They have a very pleasant visual impact and even for kids, who sometimes don't react that well to fruit, love them», underlined Marcos Simón.
During the next following weeks producers and cooperatives will work at full blast to handle and pack cherries, hoping to reach the expected 8 million kilos.

http://www.freshplaza.com/news_detail.asp?id=79616

Sweet cherries remain one of the most promising fruits

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 00:00:00 +0000

According to Fruit-Inform Project, Ukraine's sweet cherry harvest in 2010 was the largest for last 5 years. In comparison with lean harvest in 2009, sweet cherry production grew by 38% to 73 thousand tonnes last year.

It should be mentioned that production increased against a background of reduction in bearing areas under sweet cherry orchards. Over last 5 years bearing areas decreased by 7%, and total areas under sweet cherry orchards became 17% smaller. So productivity was the main factor of last year's production growth, as it grew by 38% in comparison with 2009. And this means that technological level of sweet cherry production is improving in Ukraine from year to year.

Analysts think that sweet cherry production and sales business is one of the most promising in fruit and vegetable sector of Ukraine. This is corroborated by international trade balance showing Ukrainian sweet cherries to be strengthening their positions in the international market from year to year. In such a way, in 2010 Ukraine exported 2.5 times more sweet cherries than in 2009.

HUELVA PROVINCE WILL PRODUCE MORE STRAWBERRY,BLACKBERRY,BLUEBERRY AND RASPBERRY THAN IN 2009-2010,EXPERT SAID

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 00:00:00 +0000

In the present campaign, Huelva province will produce 18.6% more strawberry, blackberry, blueberry and raspberry than in 2009/2010, according to predictions from the counsellor for Agriculture and Fishing, Clara Aguilera.

She clarified that about 267,843 tons will be collected, against last year's 225,800 tons, when the fields of Huelva were affected by the weather.
During the present campaign, the weather complied and allowed fruits to grow in quantity and quality. The strawberry was particularly keen on this last parameter by the introduction of new varieties.

The counsellor also values growers' use of plague control methods that improve quality and the commercial image, highlighting the importance of going ahead with it «to raise competitiveness and improve the image of Huelva's strawberry».

Aguilera pointed out that as for the biologic control techniques, there are already some positive and viable experiences with the strawberry in Huelva. Despite the 200 hectares taken for this, 69% of the cultivated area in the province is for integrated production.

Spain: The biggest exporter of strawberries

Sat, 04 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Spain: The biggest exporter of strawberries

Spain is the biggest exporting country of strawberries and the second one in world production, with United States in first place. Inside the national territory, Huelva keeps 90% of the production. The strawberry cultivation area in Huelva province, in the 2008/09 campaign was 6.600 hectares, which is more than the previous year's campaign. To highlight the fact that in the 2008/09 campaign, 66% of this area was under the system of Integrated Production.

The commercialized production of strawberries in this campaign reached 249.410 tons and 80% of the fresh product was marketed.
The strawberry campaign starts in December and ends in June. The main varieties cultivated in the 2008/09 campaign were: Camarosa, occupying 58% of the area, Candonga (18%) and in a lower percentage Ventana and Festival.
By comparison with previous campaigns there was a lower proportion of Camarosa, because of the introduction of Candonga, Ventana and others. The area was stabilized with the Festival variety. Like in other campaigns, diversification in the varieties allows for a graded production during the whole campaign.

Strawberry's exports
The main destination for Huelva's strawberries are the other European countries. To highlight as importers are France and Germany, that get 63% of the exported volume.
Exports in 2009 rose considerably compared to the previous campaign, reaching values similar to the average of the last five years. The main kind of client of the strawberry companies is the modern distribution, mainly supermarkets, acquiring between 80 and 100% of the exported volume.
Source: http://www.frozentrade.com/news/item6

World cherry production to decrease

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0000

The global production of cherries in the period 2010/2011 will see a drop close to 11%, regarding the previous season, according to the estimations of the Department of Agriculture of the United States, USDA. New review of cherry production read here http://www.berriestrade.com/article/article-0035

MARKETING REVIEW OF FROZEN STRAWBERRY MARKET AND STRAWBERRY PRODUCTION IN CHINA

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0000

MARKETING REVIEW OF FROZEN STRAWBERRY MARKET AND STRAWBERRY PRODUCTION IN CHINA.

China's fresh strawberry production is forecast at 1.8 MMT in MY 09/10, a 20-percent increase from MY 08/09, as a result of rapid acreage expansion in major producing provinces. Japanese varieties dominate the fresh market, while U. S. and European varieties are generally used for processing. China's frozen strawberry production is forecast at 150,000 MT in MY 09/10, a five-percent increase over the revised MY 08/09 figure of 143,000 MT, to account for expanding acreage. In MY 09/10, China's frozen strawberry exports are forecast at 110,000 MT, and imports are expected to remain stable at 11,500 MT. Chile, Morocco, Argentina, and Egypt are the major suppliers of frozen strawberries to China. Read more here http://www.berriestrade.com/article/article-0036

REVIEW OF RUSSIAN MARKET: PRICES FOR FROZEN CRANBERRIES, FROZEN BLUEBERRIES AND FROZEN LINGONBERRIES CONTINUE TO GROW

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Prices of frozen blueberries reached a level of 160-170 rubles / kg (5,1 USD /kg).Prices for frozen lingonberries come closer to

200 rubles / kg (6,45 USD/Kg).Prices for cranberries rose above the level of 200 rubles / kg (6,45 USD/Kg).

New article about situation on the wholesale market of frozen berries in Russia is published here: http://www.berriestrade.com/article/article-0034

Germany want to improve position European organic strawberries

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Germany want to improve position European organic strawberries

In Germany discussions are going on about the situation on the organic strawberry market, the latest discussions of the 'Strategy Forum' in Gleisdorf are going on. Last year a considerable amount of Chinese organic strawberries were exported to Europe. And this year the quantity will increase as well. At the moment Chinese organic strawberries are 50 percent cheaper than the European Bioware strawberries. Therefore as a result the sale of organic strawberries from the region is in danger.

But how should European organic products react? According to the forum this will only be possible, when the organic growers are only involved in the cultivation and leave the selling for the account of the trading companies. These companies are in a position to offer European and non-European products to the same buyers simultaneously. In this way the European strawberries can be sold with the best possible margins in the long term as well.

For many consumers price is the most important aspect when buying. The consumer uses this often as a justification when not buying organic products. But the emotional outlook can quite easily add value to the product, for instance by emphasising the region where the product was grown. As long as the European organic products are grown outside of Europe, the organic grower will have to contend with worldwide competition.

Author: Gerard Lindhout
Copyright: www.freshplaza.com

Canada: Freeze destroys strawberry crops

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Canada: Freeze destroys strawberry crops

An overnight frost in Newfoundland has destroyed thousands of dollars worth of strawberries. One farmer said 80 to 90 per cent of his strawberries at their flowering peak died when temperatures plunged below freezing Wednesday night in Reidville, on Newfoundland's west coast.

The clear skies overnight lead to the low temperatures which dropped as low as -4 Celsius.

Author: Nichola Watson
Copyright: www.freshplaza.com

Clouds gather over Poland’s strawberry

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Clouds gather over Poland's strawberry

Bad weather, floods and rain have affected this year's strawberry pickings, driving prices up by almost 200 percent.

Currently, markets in Warsaw offer a punnet of strawberries for between 7-10 zloty (1.7-2.4 euro).

The bad weather has also meant that there are less strawberries available than in 2009, although experts' opinions differ as to the extent of the fruit's decline.

A fruit market expert, Prof. Eberhard Makosz told the press that Poland's strawberry yield this year will amount to around 150,000 tons, a drop of 45,000 tons on 2009.

The expert added that the lack of strawberries may cause problems for fruit processing plants in 2010.

Companies buying up strawberries in bulk for frozen products currently pay 2.4-2.8 zloty per kilogram, a hike of 200 percent on 2009 prices, which amounted to 1.4 zloty per kg.

Dr. Bozena Nosecka, a specialist from the Institute of Agricultural and Food Economics in Warsaw, believes that the purchasing price of strawberries does not only depend on the size of the yield, but also thanks to the food producers' strawberry stockpiles.

«Reserves are low, and demand has grown due to the better economic situation in [fruit] exports,” Nosecka claims, adding that strawberry prices may still rise due to the lack of other fruit pickings this season.

Strawberry season has hit central and eastern Poland, with northern regions expecting to harvest their yields in the near future. Experts estimate that the season will last for a further two weeks, depending on the weather.

Source: thenews. pl

Spain: Price increase saves the strawberry season

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

The local labor grew by 12%
Spain: Price increase saves the strawberry season

The strawberry campaign in the province of Huelva was completed yesterday and employers stressed the «special complexity» of this year due to two factors: the devastating winter storm that brought loses of up to 10 million kilos of early fruit (about 30 million Euros), and certain campaigns from Europe which criticized, among other things, the use of pesticides and the lack of rights of seasonal workers during the harvest.

Alberto Garrocho, president of the Association of Producers and Exporters of Huelva Strawberry (Freshuelva) reported yesterday some figures in the absence of the final results of production: the tons of strawberry collections this year fell by 10% to 12%, that means that from the 245 000 tons of fruit produced the previous season, this year it will fall to a maximum of 220 500.

The good news, according Freshuelva, is that prices increased by 5% to 6%, due to the decrease of produce. According Garrocho the final profit of this year will be very similar to that of 2009. He still lamented, «This year we had more expectations.»

Based On: www.elpais.com

AU: Strawberry glut pushes prices down

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0000

AU: Strawberry glut pushes prices down

Strawberry growers are facing yet another case of oversupply.

As some of the best production in years is harvested across south-east Queensland, it's driving prices down.

The good news for consumers is that not only is the fruit cheap, but timely rain earlier in the year means the quality is good.

President of the Queensland Strawberry Growers Association, Bill Sharpe, says growers may need to reconsider introducing a marketing levy and improve taste to boost demand.

«I mean there's nothing worse than a green mango or a green peach, or a green pear or whatever, anything picked green, it doesn't have the same flavour," he says.

«If you can pick it sort of ripe, the sugar levels are just way higher.

«So that's what we've been working on for the past 12 months."

Source: abc. net.au

Heavy rainfall hits 40,000 farms in Poland

Sun, 13 Jun 2010 10:25:42 +0000

Heavy rainfall hits 40,000 farms in Poland

In Poland about 400,000HA of agricultural land have been damaged by floods over the last few weeks. At least 40,000 agricultural companies have been hit. This is according to the first estimates of the Polish government. Crops have been destroyed and the government fears, that because of the water damage, not all spring crops will be sowed. Also neighbouring Slovakia has been hit by rainfall lasting for several days. Damage to the agricultural sector is mainly in the centre and south of the country in the river basins of the rivers Wisla and Oder. The foreign large-scale companies are mainly established in the north-western area of the country and have not been hit. In Sandomierz about two thousand people had to leave their homes. Two weeks ago the same area was also hit by heavy flooding.

Not only were many plants destroyed by water, the Polish government fears about 6% of the spring crop will not be planted. After Germany, France and the United Kingdom Poland has the biggest agricultural area of the European Union. Also in neighbouring country Slovakia the days-long rainfall led to dramatic results. After the heavy flooding there were a number of landslides in the east of the country.

Source: Agrarisch Dagblad

Poor quality of first Polish cherries

Sun, 13 Jun 2010 10:21:46 +0000

Poor quality of first Polish cherries

First Polish sweet cherries appeared on the market about two weeks later than usually. Their quality is rather poor due to adverse weather. They are small, poor coloured and not sweet. However the demand for cherries is quite big. In the production area near Grójec the price of first cherries was from 4.00 to 5.00 PLN (0.97-1.22 €)/kg.

Source: fresh-market.pl (KZ)

China: Cherry production delayed due to cold winter

Sun, 13 Jun 2010 10:12:24 +0000

China is expecting a delayed cherry season this year. This is due to an abnormally long and cold winter, which froze some of the early cherry blooms.

The cherry season normally starts May 1st with cherries from the greenhouses which last for the month of May. These cherries represent between 10-20% of the total production. The outdoor cherries are normally ready for harvest around June 1st and continue till the beginning of July.

Due to the long cold winter this year Steve Leung, from Alfa Fruit Packers expects a delay of about 2 weeks compared to last year. Initial estimates suggest the volume will be reduced by 40%.

Alfa Fruit Packers will begin harvesting the early varieties Rainier and Bing then continue with the later varieties such as Lapins.

Mr Leung Managing Director at Alfa Fruit Packers says that due to the reduced volumes he expects prices to be a lot higher than last year.

Very little cherries are exported by Alfa Fruit Packers because there are very few large cherries available for the export market. Mr Leung also says that «there is no infrastructure such as a hydro cooler, cold storage at the airport and the domestic airline is not capable of handling fresh and highly perishable products like cherries."

Mr Leung does not expect to export cherries in the next few years due to the above problems and also the high domestic demand. China imports cherries from the USA, Australia and New Zealand.

US(CA): Bumper blueberry harvest

Sun, 13 Jun 2010 10:01:54 +0000

US(CA): Bumper blueberry harvest

The blueberry crop in California is about ten days late this season due to a cool and wet spring. Although late, a bumper harvest is expected. According to Alex Ott, executive director of the California Blueberry Commission more than 30 million pounds (13.6 million kgs) should be harvested.
Author: Nichola Watson
Copyright: www.freshplaza.com

Spain: Volume of plums will half this season

Sun, 13 Jun 2010 10:01:28 +0000

Spain: Volume of plums will half this season

According to estimates from the Ministry of Agriculture (MARM) there is a decrease in Spanish cherry production by 38.8% to 57,200 tons. Peaches on the other hand will rise by 6.9%

The biggest reduction will be seen in plums, 53.2% to a volume of 104,200 tons

For other stone fruit, apricots will fall 3.5% (for 93,000 tons), while the peach will improve by 6.9% compared to last season (for 838.300 total tons), reports Green Med Journal .

As for vegetables production, an increase by 3.1% is expected for asparagus, to 50,300 tonnes, and by 2.6% for early onion, to 218,000 tonnes. The early potato crop will fall by 34.2% over last year, to 234.000 tonnes. As for nuts, MARM expected an increase of almond crop of 0.4 percent, to 283,100 tonnes.

US(CA): Stone fruit season delayed

Sun, 13 Jun 2010 09:59:57 +0000

US(CA): Stone fruit season delayed

San Joaquin Valley stone fruit season is facing a delay this year due to the cool damp Spring. Cherries especially could suffer from a reduced volume.

Arrivals to the farmers markets have been delayed by a few weeks. The temperatures in May did not get above 90°F which is very unusual. The farmers saw some light rain last month but were happy that this was not followed by heat spikes, which can encourage pests and diseases in the fruit.

It was reported by mobee. com that industry representatives said apricots and other stone fruits are a week or two behind. That extra time on the tree can mean a larger size for each piece, according to the University of California Cooperative Extension.

After three years of drought farmers in general have welcomed the rain to boost water supplies.

Publication date: 6/10/2010
Author: Nichola Watson
Copyright: www.freshplaza.com

Chinese cherry hits the market

Sun, 13 Jun 2010 09:59:18 +0000

Chinese cherry hits the market

Cherries from China are on the market. The main varieties are Red Light and Lapins, the first is already on the market and will be followed the Lapins next week. The Chinese is cherry big, colourful with a good taste, each weighs more than 9gr.

The main producing areas are in Shandong and Liaoning provinces. Cherries were originally planted in Yantai, Shandong provinces, by western churchmen, sailors and colonies in the 1870's. According to Ms Joyce He from Isnet, «there are about 57 thousand acres of red cherry in Yantai, the output is about 124.6 thousand tons occupying 60% of the total productions in China.» Owing to the low temperature last year, the harvesting time has been delayed, and the price is lower than last year.