Even though last month's rains in Argentina affected several of its agricultural areas, they had a positive effect on kiwi crops. The kiwi's percentage of dry matter was better than expected. "The harvest began 15 days ago with very good results. Despite the rains, the kiwis we harvested had more than 16% dry matter, thus they have a higher quality than expected," said Mariano Martinez, representative of Don Kiwi.
Mar del Plata is the area with the best weather conditions for the production of this fruit in Argentina and, even though the producers in this area were not used to growing this fruit, these crops have been promoted there in recent years. "Since Mar del Plata, which is located in the southeast of the province of Buenos Aires, is located at the same latitude as the kiwi producing areas in New Zealand, and we have the same weather conditions as there, we have many advantages to produce this fruit and to achieve a good quality product," he said.
"Currently, Argentina mainly produces kiwi to supply the domestic market. However, the volume destined for exports will increase because of the yearly increase in production and hectares planted. Additionally, we have better chances of exporting now, since the new government is more open to exports, and because of the kind of harvest we are currently having, "says Martinez.
