India was one of the few sales opportunities for the top fruit sector after Russia, but the export was disappointing this season. "A lot less apples are going to India than last year," says Etienne Leclère, commercial director of Veiling Haspengouw. "In 2015 we were in full swing at this time of the year, but at the moment the shipments are in dribs and drabs."
Red varieties
An important reason for the decreasing export to India is the increasing competition. "Countries like Iraq, China and the United States also export to India and we notice it." The red Jonagold mutants such as Red Prince and Jonagored go to India. We notice that the Red Prince does well, it is almost completely red. The more green the apple is the more difficult it is to sell."
Dramatic
The sales of apples both domestically and abroad is difficult this season. "Everyone started the season quite positive, as the situation the year before wasn't too bad in the end. Unfortunately it was very difficult. Industrial varieties made some money at the start, but now the apple price for both segments is dramatic. We are bothered by Poland, who are offering their fruit for extremely sharp prices."
Hope
Etienne believes the sector shouldn't give up, but does notice the hopes of some growers fading. "There are growers who quit, or are taken over, but many won't give up. Top fruit isn't just a product, you can't switch from one thing to another in a day. The investments in trees are high and full production takes years. The decision to dig up an orchard isn't make from day to the next. People carry on and hope for the best."
