1. Weekly News

Belgium

Stable Strawberry Season in Belgium Amid Ideal Weather Conditions

This summer brought favorable conditions for strawberry production in Belgium. Unlike previous years with extreme temperatures, the weather was stable, which helped strawberries grow well and be available consistently. Although demand typically drops during the holiday season, sales remained steady despite lower prices recently. A further price drop might happen when the second batch of strawberries is ready, but if temperatures stay moderate, the season should continue smoothly.

Egypt

Egypt Becomes Top Exporter of Fresh Strawberries to Kazakhstan

In the 2023/24 marketing year (MY), Egypt emerged as the leading exporter of fresh garden strawberries to Kazakhstan, supplying nearly 1.4 thousand tons and capturing over 55% of Kazakhstan's total strawberry imports. This marks a significant rise from just 280 tons the previous year. Egypt's rapid growth in fruit and vegetable exports to Central Asia, surpassing competitors like Azerbaijan and Turkey, reflects its increasing diversification and ability to meet off-season demand. While the European Union (EU), the Middle East, and Russia remain key markets, Egypt continues expanding its presence in Central and Southeast Asia.

Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan's Expanding Strawberry Sector Drives Export Growth

Strawberry cultivation is rapidly gaining momentum in Kyrgyzstan, becoming a key contributor to the country's agricultural sector. In 2023, Kyrgyzstan's strawberry exports reached USD 825 thousand, driven by strong demand from Russia and Kazakhstan. The cultivated area notably expanded in the Issyk-Kul region, growing from 100 to 400 hectares (ha) over the past year. Farmers find strawberries highly profitable, with prices ranging from USD 2.0 to 11.7 per kilogram (kg), depending on the season. Although the crop requires significant investment and careful management due to weather risks, farmers report positive income as early as the first year of cultivation, encouraging continued growth in this promising sector.

Morocco

Morocco's Strawberry Sector Prepares for Promising Season

In Morocco's Larache region, preparations for the upcoming strawberry season are in full swing. After facing past challenges from adverse weather and market issues, the strawberry sector is bouncing back. In 2024, the area planted with strawberries increased by 20 to 30% year-on-year (YoY) due to better yields and prices last season. The harvest will start mid-Nov-24, with a second round expected on Jan-25. Despite some weather concerns, the season looks promising, with stable temperatures and no water shortages in Larache, unlike other parts of Morocco.

United States

California Sets New Record for Summer Strawberry Acreage in 2024

In 2024, California grew more strawberries than ever, with a record of about 4.5 thousand ha (11.2 thousand acres) of summer strawberries. This continues a decade-long trend of increasing summer strawberry transplants, now accounting for 27% of California's total strawberry production. The growth in organic strawberry sales also helped, with 1.9 million new organic buyers in 2024, making organic strawberries 29% of the market. While weekly strawberry volumes are expected to range between 5.5 and 6 million packages, some dips may occur compared to the previous year, but excellent quality is forecasted for Aug-24 and Sept-24.

2. Weekly Pricing

Weekly Strawberry Pricing Important Exporters (USD/kg)

Yearly Change in Strawberry Pricing Important Exporters (W34 2023 to W34 2024)

Mexico

Mexico strawberry prices surged by 65.83% week-on-week (WoW) to USD 2.72/kg in W34, compared to USD 1.64/kg in W33. Moreover, there is also a 22.84% month-on-month (MoM) and a 28.80% YoY increase. This sharp price rebound is due to a significant reduction in supply as growers adjusted to the previous oversupply conditions. The earlier period of oversupply led to price drops, prompting producers to scale back their harvests, leading to a tighter market in W34. Additionally, with the recovery from the extreme heat waves stabilizing, the quality of the strawberries improved, driving up demand and allowing for a substantial price increase. This combination of reduced supply and enhanced quality contributed to the significant price surge observed in W34.

United States

In W34, strawberry prices in the United States (US) rose to USD 4.12/kg, a 36.36% WoW, a 66.67% MoM, and a 114.29% YoY increase. This notable price surge is due to continued favorable growing conditions, which have persisted into the new week. The combination of sunnier and warmer weather maintained the fair quality of the strawberries and potentially improved them further. Enhanced berry quality has driven increased consumer demand, leading to higher prices. Additionally, despite a surge in supply, the market's positive reception of superior quality supported and even drove up prices.

Italy

Strawberry prices in Italy increased by 48% WoW to USD 8/kg in W34, with a 48% MoM rise. This substantial price increase reflects the ongoing impact of the excessive heat, which has severely constrained production and affected the quality of strawberries. The extreme temperatures have reduced supply and challenged the maintenance of fruit quality, driving prices upward. The combination of lower production levels and quality issues underlines the significant impact of the adverse weather conditions on the strawberry market.

3. Actionable Recommendations

Secure Steady Strawberry Sales

Belgian strawberry producers should continue monitoring weather conditions to ensure stable quality and availability. With favorable weather supporting good growth, keep track of temperature and weather patterns to avoid potential issues. Promote current stock effectively by highlighting the quality and freshness of the strawberries through targeted marketing campaigns. Plan marketing efforts to attract and engage customers, especially during the holiday season, and adjust pricing strategies to manage potential price drops when the second batch arrives.

Optimize Strawberry Harvest and Sales Strategy

Moroccan strawberry growers in Larache should optimize their harvest and sales strategy by preparing for the upcoming season with increased acreage. Implement efficient crop management practices, such as precise irrigation and pest control, to ensure high-quality yields. Begin early marketing efforts to promote enhanced production and attract buyers. Develop a proactive marketing plan highlighting improved yields and quality, and prepare contingency strategies to handle potential weather impacts. This approach will help maintain consistent supply and pricing throughout the season, maximizing the benefits of the increased acreage and favorable growing conditions.

Adjust Harvest Schedules to Manage Supply and Stabilize Prices

Mexican strawberry producers should adjust their harvest schedules to better match market demand and stabilize prices. By carefully managing the timing of harvests, they can avoid overproduction and maintain a balanced supply. This approach will help prevent significant price fluctuations and ensure that strawberries are available at optimal quality when demand is highest. Monitoring market conditions closely and aligning production with current demand trends will help stabilize prices and support more consistent revenue.

Sources: Tridge, Eastfruit, Italianberry, Turmush, Abc, Eastfruit, Italianberry, Turmush, Abc, FreshPlaza, Msn, Hortidaily