In W40 in the strawberry landscape, Egypt's frozen strawberry industry has exhibited impressive values and growth in international trade. Over the past five years, the country has effectively doubled its frozen strawberry exports to the European Union (EU), reaching 95 thousand metric tons (mt) and solidifying its position as a significant player. In the first seven months of 2023. This thriving export business contributes significantly to Egypt's economy.
In 2022, Egypt played a pivotal role as a frozen strawberry supplier for the EU, accounting for nearly two-thirds of the total supply. The EU represents the world's largest market for frozen garden strawberries, and Egypt's consistent export growth has maintained a dominant share. This value-driven expansion is expected to continue from October to November, contrasting with Morocco's declining influence, another key player in the market. Egypt's impact is also seen in the United States (US) frozen strawberry market. In 2022, Egypt became the fourth-largest supplier of frozen strawberries for the US. The first seven months of 2023 showed a 17% year-on-year (YoY) increase in export volume to the US, positioning Egypt as the third-largest supplier. Mexico, the leading exporter to the US, is seeing a gradual decline in its market share, making room for Egypt's growing presence.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development of Spain has initiated procedures for the recognition of the Huelva strawberry with a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), aiming to distinguish strawberries from Huelva based on its exceptional taste, aroma, and intense red color. This initiative is part of the collaboration between the Andalusian Government and the Interprofessional Association of Andalusian Strawberries (Interfresa) to support the red fruit sector. Attaining PGI status for the Huelva strawberry will emphasize its origin, sustainability, and significance to the local economy, benefiting 160 thousand Huelva residents and contributing 11.35% to the Gross Domestic Product of Huelva.
Over 90% of the sector holds the Global Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Spring certification for water sustainability. This effort is part of the Andalusian Government's campaign to strengthen the Huelva strawberry sector in European and international markets. Huelva produces over 270 thousand tons of strawberries annually on 6.30 thousand hectares (ha). In the last campaign, Huelva strawberry exports reached USD 1.46 million (EUR 1.39 million), making it a crucial agricultural product for Andalusia. Strawberry planting for the new campaign is underway in Huelva during W40.
Lastly, in Chile, during the VII Scientific Meeting organized by the Doctorate in Sciences program specializing in Plant Biology and Biotechnology (DBVB), a research study was introduced, focusing on Chilean strawberries. The study, conducted by a Chilean university aims to leverage the unique traits of Chilean strawberries, such as their flavor, texture, and juiciness, to improve other commercial strawberry varieties and non-climacteric fruits. The Fragaria Chiloensis, the native white strawberry in the Concepción region, is particularly interesting. Scientists are investigating its genes, notably a plant hormone called Abscisic Acid (ABA), which plays a role in strawberry ripening. The research may lead to technologies for controlling fruit ripening and potentially transferring these genes to other fruit species, including grapes and cherries, which belong to the same non-climacteric fruit group and ripen independently of the ethylene hormone. This study underscores the significance of agricultural research with implications for food production and addressing challenges related to climate change and water scarcity.