W35: Positive End of Season for Watermelons and Galia Melons from Spain

"Empty, nothing available." Those were the words of a Dutch trader regarding the market situation of watermelons from Spain in the Netherlands. He mentioned that although the market seems pretty empty, traditional and historical importers from Spain are receiving limited volumes for sales on the open market. This is based on long-term relationships with Spanish growers and suppliers, as well as previous investments in the La Peninsula. 

The above was ratified by a Spanish exporter. According to him, the prices reached this moment are extremely high. At the beginning of this week, the majority of growers were asking for no less than 1.00 euros per kilo ex-work. We learned from this exporter that most of the fruit is committed to regular clients and programs with retail. Due to the rains in April and May, it was difficult to plant as per schedule, which is now reflected in a lower availability. He mentioned that for Galia melons it is more or less the same situation, whereby they are selling to clients in the Netherlands on a basis of 6.50 euros per 5 kg box DDP Rotterdam. He said that it seems lower, but the sizes sold are the least wanted, 3er and 4er, whereas retailers normally use size 5. And they adapted to this new situation, he said. 

Finally, for both sources, the season will be over within the next 2 to 3 weeks. At that time, demand for overseas watermelons should be good.