Fruit and vegetable prices higher in Spain as drought affects yields

The ongoing dry and hot conditions in Spain continue to pose challenges for fruit and vegetable growers as water becomes increasingly scarce and plants struggle to develop in the persistent heat. 

Growers of tomatoes for fresh consumption are grappling with the consequences of these high temperatures. The heat has sped up the maturation process, affecting the quality of the crop. Additionally, concerns arise about the impact of heat on late tomatoes in the early growth stages. The Mintec price for Tomato Daniela [Mintec Code: 7Z39] was €1.29/kg on the 16th of August, marking a 35.7% increase year-on-year (y-o-y). Market sources report that Broccoli is another vegetable impacted by high temperatures and heatwaves. Reports suggest that summer crop yields might have fallen by as much as 50%, and quality has also been affected despite more than double the amount of irrigation being used. Currently, the Mintec price for wholesale Broccoli [Mintec Code: 7Z28] from Spain stood at €3.38/kg on 16th August , reflecting a 26.5% y-o-y increase. Cauliflower has encountered similar challenges. There are concerns about sowing autumn crops as water reservoirs deplete.

The dry and hot weather has also negatively impacted the fruit category. Estimates from market sources indicate that the upcoming mango crop, concentrated in Malaga, might decline by 60-70% compared to average levels. The sentiment surrounding the season has been notably negative. Fruit-bearing trees, known for their water-intensive nature, are vulnerable to constant heat. Oranges and lemons have also been affected by the heat. The elevated temperatures have diminished yields and hampered the flowering process, further impacting the yield outlook. Currently, the wholesale price for oranges [Mintec code:7A36] stood at €1.50/kg as of 16th August, reflecting a 25% increase, while the price for lemons [Mintec code: 3B24] is at €1.17/kg as of  9th August.