After the Russian boycott last year many European exporters started searching for new markets, and the search continues this year as well. Veerle Van der Sypt from Fresh Trade Belgium says that they are fully committed to promoting the export of fruits and vegetables, "Searching for new markets and improving existing ones is high on our agenda. Right now we are focusing on apples and pears because these fruits are more suitable for far away destinations."
India and Canada
"India is a perfect example of a renewed market, having come back last year. This year we want to further our contact there and we hope this will boost volumes." Another market is Canada, "Last year the export of pears to Canada started cautiously with small volumes. Several exporters are working to further develop business there, so that is good."
The U.S. and Brazil
The U.S. and Brazil are two other important destinations, "The U.S. case is pending. Around this time last year we thought we had a breakthrough but there was a political delay. I don't expect export to the U.S. will start this year. We are in a joint file with eight other European countries. Of those eight countries, Italy and France have access for apples and/or pears. They agreed with the 'pre-clearance system', in which American controls are organized in the country where the product is coming from. That comes at a cost of course, and that's why other countries, like us, are doubting the system. Now it is harder for us because Italy and France already agreed." Veerle is hopeful about Brazil, "The Netherlands already exports pears to Brazil. Our auctions have focused on developing a case that was submitted this year. Now we have to wait for an answer from the Brazilians and by the end of this year we expect to finally have a breakthrough. With stipulations of course, but we're moving in the right direction."
Within the EU
People are searching for new markets both inside and outside the EU, "There is enough potential within the EU to sell fruits and vegetables. Further destinations are more risky and it takes more time to build up the volume. That is why we are exporting pears to Germany. We don't want to forget about our neighboring countries."
Government
The Belgian government is taking initiative to stimulate export, "Since last year the government has become better coordinated in terms of export. Following the Russian crisis, cooperation between embassies, the Federal Agency, foreign trade and promotion services have intensified. There are also initiatives like 'trade missions' and the concept Food.be, which is meant to promote the entire Belgian food sector. The next mission will take place in Canada in October. There is a mission planned for spring 2016 in Indonesia, where there is potential for top fruit and processed fresh produce products. We have more sector specific actions and contact days with VLAM."
Russia
Russia will remain a major challenge, "We should not expect much change from Russia. We should continue on the path that we embarked on last year. It does not look like the boycott will be lifted anytime soon. The low status of the ruble also has a major impact on the purchasing behavior of Russian consumers. Despite everything last year, it was still a pretty good year." World Food Moscow will take place September 15-17, "Seven exporters have registered as exhibitors. They believe it is important to maintain their existing relations. In addition, there will also be companies from other countries present at the fair and there might be some potential there."
