W11 Melon and Watermelon Update: Surge in Watermelon Production Leads to Export Surplus in Ukraine, Guatemala's Melon Prices Drop on Increased Central American Shipments, and Kashmir's Watermelon Sales Declined by 50% Over Chemical Rumors

Published 2024년 3월 22일

In W11 in the watermelon and melon landscape, Ukraine anticipates a surge in watermelon export after an increase in farming of watermelons, with production area expected to expand three to four times compared to 2023. Brazil's watermelon prices dropped due to unfavorable weather conditions, while São Paulo and Uruana, Brazil, experienced increased harvest volumes. Lastly, Guatemala's melon prices dipped due to increased Central American shipments, while Kashmir's watermelon sales have dropped 50% due to rumors of harmful chemicals.

Ukraine Anticipates Watermelon Export Surplus After Significant Farming Surge

Over the past two years, watermelon farming in Ukraine has experienced a substantial increase, with the cultivation area in 2024 is expected to increase by three to four times compared to 2023. As the Head of Marketing for Vegetable Seeds at Syngenta in Ukraine noted, this growth projects to meet domestic demand and generate a surplus for export, particularly to the Baltic countries. Unlike in 2023, when Ukraine imported around 1 thousand tons of watermelons from Romania and Moldova, Kolinko anticipates no import needed this 2023/24 season.

Watermelon Prices Fluctuate Across Brazilian Regions During W11

In Brazil, the price of watermelon in Teixeira de Freitas dropped due to unfavorable weather conditions, including high rainfall and temperatures. This has resulted in a loss of quality in the remaining fruits, affecting market prices. In contrast, São Paulo and Uruana are experiencing a volume increase of harvested watermelons due to favorable climate conditions. The price of large-sized watermelons in Teixeira de Freitas closed at USD 0.32 per kilogram (BRL 1.63/kg), a 20% week-over-week (WoW) decrease from W10. In Rio Grande do Sul, the price for the same grade of fruit stood at USD 0.29/kg (BRL 1.48/kg), a slight increase of 1.6% WoW. In São Paulo, the price of large watermelons reached USD 0.35/kg (BRL 1.75/kg), a 1.4% WoW increase, and in Uruana, it was USD 0.37/kg (BRL 1.85/kg), a 2.8% WoW increase.

Melon Prices Dip in Guatemala Due to Increased Central American Shipments

As of W11, Guatemala is in its second production cycle for cantaloupe and honeydew melons, with volumes expected to continue until mid-May-24. The current supply is similar to that of 2023 due to favorable weather conditions and minimal whitefly pressure. These melons are primarily destined for Florida and California markets until the third week of May-24, after which production will shift to Yuma, Arizona. Melon prices have been lower this season than in 2023 due to increased production and shipments from Central America. While a recall of Mexican cantaloupes under a single label affected the retail sector negatively in the fall, the food service and fresh-cut businesses remained strong. With temperatures rising, demand is expected to increase, prompting retailers to plan promotions for Easter and Apr-24.

Rumors of Chemical Use Caused A 50% Drop in Watermelon Sales in Kashmir

There has been a 50% decrease in sales of watermelons in Kashmir, India, due to rumors that the crop is cultivated with harmful chemicals. Due to allegations of artificial ripening using carcinogenic substances, the local population, which has historically enjoyed the summer fruit, has been put off by these rumors. The impact of unverified claims, such as those implying early-ripened watermelons, on the business of fruit vendors in Srinagar city and other districts is a concern. Officials have been directed by the Food Safety Drugs and Food Control Organization, Kashmir Division, to perform market inspections and sampling to address these concerns. The goal is to ensure the public knows the watermelon’s safety and quality.