W31: Watermelon Update - Antarctic Cultivation Breakthrough and European Market Fluctuations

Antarctic Watermelon Cultivation: A Groundbreaking Achievement

In the watermelon landscape, scientists from the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute (AARI) have achieved the cultivation of watermelons at Antarctica's Vostok station. Collaborating with the Agrophysical Research Institute and the Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, AARI demonstrated the growth of watermelons in an extreme environment. Utilizing specialized techniques and technology, including a pyrotechnical complex, controlled lighting, and nutrient solutions, the researchers planted two varieties of watermelons in April. The experiment resulted in watermelons of up to 13 centimeters (cm) in diameter and 1 kilogram (kg) in weight, possessing taste and aroma comparable to those grown in conventional conditions. This achievement has paved the way for future endeavors, including cultivating blackberries, blueberries, and strawberries in Antarctica's extreme climate. The Vostok station, known for its weather conditions, continues to be a focal point for pioneering research by the AARI.

European Watermelon Market: Shifts in Italy, Spain, and Moldova

Italy: Fluctuating Watermelon Market Dynamics

In the Italian market, the price of watermelons experienced a decline, attributed to increased supply, particularly from the Lazio region. Notably, the recent heavy hailstorms in Lombardy resulted in substantial damage to a significant portion of the watermelon crops, further impacting the market dynamics.

Spain: Adapting Watermelon Production to Weather Challenges

The watermelon and melon productions in the Region of Murcia and Castilla-La Mancha, Spain, are experiencing a positive shift in early August. Despite initial concerns due to adverse weather earlier in the year, the volumes harvested have normalized and aligned with customer demands. The production calendar suggests that Spanish watermelon and melon exports will continue until the third week of September. High areas of Murcia and Castilla-La Mancha are focused on cultivation to optimize quality and water conservation. In addition, the President of the Association of Producers-Exporters of Fruit and Vegetables of the Region of Murcia (Proexport) reported that high-elevation areas like Jumilla and Yecla in Murcia were chosen for August watermelon production due to cooler nights and lower water consumption.

Moldova and Ukraine: Watermelon Price Trends and Production Shifts

The reduction in watermelon prices in Moldova has accelerated in recent weeks, but signs of stabilization emerged in the last week of July. The average wholesale price for watermelon during early August remains around USD 0.28/kg (MDL 5/kg), with farmers attempting slight price increases. Furthermore, Ukrainian watermelon producers have initiated the shipment of significant watermelon batches from local farms in W31. The start of sales occurred approximately a week earlier compared to 2022. Watermelons are being offered at prices ranging from USD 0.49 to 0.73/kg (UAH 18 to 27/kg), reflecting an average increase of 59% compared to last year's early batches. Market leaders attribute the heightened prices to low supplies from the Kherson region, a prominent watermelon cultivation hub. Producers anticipate a more widespread sale of watermelons starting in early August, with many foreseeing a potential sharp price drop due to an expected surge in local farm supply.