This week, green bean prices have increased again in the province of Almeria. The cost of this residual crop (in terms of volume) in week 49 has reached 1.52 €/kg on average in the case of the flat variety, while the price of round green beans has increased even more remarkably, reaching 2.08 €/kg. The average for the 2015/2016 campaign (1.62 €/kg) is much higher than that of the same period in the previous two campaigns, with 1.11 €/kg in 2013/2014 and 1.38 €/kg in 2014/2015, which is a good development for such a minor product in the province.
Morocco, leader in the sector
In recent years, Moroccan green beans have dominated the international market, reaching the top mostly thanks to the country's low labour costs. Also, its plantations are often in full production at this time, compared with Almeria and Granada, for which it is a "very residual" crop in the same period, as growers choose to plant other vegetables, such as peppers or tomatoes. However, after the announcement of the cancellation of the trade agreement between the EU and Morocco, there could be further price increases, and even a growth of the crop's popularity amongst producers. For now, it remains to be seen what the first steps of the European Union will be following this unexpected news, as well as how the markets will react. What is certain is that agricultural organizations have applauded the measure in unison and have urged Europe to enforce a decision which will surely benefit Spanish producers, strengthening their position in the EU.
