In W34 in the grape landscape, the Southern European countries are experiencing intense heat, leading to a 30% to 40% decrease in the supply of high-quality grapes compared to 2022. This results in burnt grapes and lesser quality grapes, making them unsuitable for supermarkets and discerning customers. Mediterranean countries have experienced numerous setbacks, such as damage in Greece and flooding in Italy. Importers from Netherlands expect to receive the last supply of Victoria grapes in W35, followed by the Italia grapes, which can continue until the end of Nov-23. The Italian seedless grapes prices stood at USD 12.97 per 4.5 kilogram (EUR 12/4.5kg), while Victoria and Palieri grapes were around USD 2.16/kg (EUR 2/kg).
Moreover, the Italian grapes in the Apulia region experienced a 30% year-over-year (YoY) drop in production due to downy mildew and increased cultivation costs. Grape growers report unsatisfactory sales and prices for seedless varieties, while traditional varieties experience price increases. The average price for Victoria grapes is USD 0.65 to 0.76/kg (EUR 0.60 to 0.70/kg), while seedless grapes stood at USD 0.81 to 0.86/kg (EUR 0.75 to 0.80/kg). The adverse weather conditions have reduced the availability of seeded grapes, causing an unexpected market shortage.
Grape production in Spain is expected to decline by 20% to 30% in 2023, causing a rise in grape prices due to the drought and high temperatures in the spring. The Airén white grape variety, known for its resilience to heat and drought, is particularly prevalent in Castilla-La Mancha, a region that dominates a significant share of Spain's vineyards.
Egyptian grape exporters have faced challenges in the Asian market, including rising packaging material prices and a shortage of white varieties like Prime and Superior due to the end-of-season harvest. Currently, Egyptian packhouses have depleted their product stocks, with only small amounts of Crimson grapes still being exported. Despite these challenges, Egyptian growers have managed to maintain their presence in the traditional Asian market, with Malaysia and Singapore being preferred markets. Egyptian growers are investing in new varieties like Sweet Globe, Cotton Candy, and Autumn Crisp, which have high Brix values.
Lastly, Kishmish grapes in Uzbekistan have experienced a three-fold increase in wholesale prices in just one week, marking a record high for this seedless grape variety. Uzbekistan's average wholesale price for Kishmish grapes increased by 36% week-on-week (WoW), from USD 0.91 to 1.24/kg (UZS 11,000 to 15,000/kg). The high season prices are record highs for this type of grape in recent years, according to EastFruit analysts.
