Spain's strawberry export volumes in 2013 reached 266,408 tonnes; 7% less than in 2012, and made 467 million Euro (-10.5%). Huelva, with 225,463 tonnes, represented 85% of the total. The main destinations were Germany, with 85,883 tonnes, 4% less than in 2012; France, with 61,631 tonnes (-17%); the UK, with 26,243 tonnes (+11%) and Italy, which imported 23,892 tonnes (-9%), according to data provided by the Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness.
This week, the higher temperatures registered have accelerated the ripening process. "While in January and February the strawberries were characterised by their good quality, in March they will benefit from the good weather," point out sources from Freshuelva. The effect of these warmer temperatures on the early varieties has caused the campaign to start a few weeks earlier.
At the start of the campaign, more than 40% of the fruit is exported to Germany, France, Italy or the UK, although by the end these percentages vary. In general terms, 80% of the strawberries and 90% of the other berries are shipped overseas.
Demand levels this campaign are very high for producers of newly-developed varieties from Huelva, such as the Primoris or Antilla. The Primoris, introduced in 2010, has consolidated its popularity with 46 million plants. According to sources from Freshuelva, it is a variety that resists long-distance shipping and has good organoleptic qualities.
Huelva's raspberry, blueberry and blackberry campaigns have also started; fruits for which considerably production volumes are expected, as their acreage has been expanded.
This season's strawberry acreage, according to Freshuelva, is of 6,980 hectares.
