The reason for this drop in reduction is the impact of the weather three weeks ago, Tsinoglou explains. “About twenty days ago, several cherry farms were devastated after a frost that lasted for two days. Around 70 per cent of the crops were wiped out in the lowland areas, where the mountainous areas suffered losses of about 30 per cent. Thankfully, the bulk of the cherries are produced in the mountainous areas, so we believe that the damages will not exceed 40% in total.”
As can be expected, the drop in production will inevitably increase the prices of cherries. Tsinoglou states: “Looking at our exports, as a company we will focus on the markets in Italy, the Netherlands, England and Poland, as there is considerable interest in Greek cherries in these countries. Due to the damages that the frost has caused, we expect prices to be higher, not only in Greece, but also in other countries, exceeding the prices of last year.”
The challenges surrounding the weather aren’t completely over yet, as further wet weather has its own risks. “Finally, although the weather is quite rainy these days, we hope that sufficient pollination will take place and that the rains will not continue during the time of harvest. This would avoid additional problems, such as cracking in the fruits and Monilia rot,” Tsinoglou concludes.
For more information:
Apostolos Tsinoglou
Europe Export 2016 P.C.
Tel: +30 69 066 66 996
Email: europe_export@hotmail.gr
www.europeexportsfruits.com
