In W34 in the melon landscape, melon prices surged by 8% in the Brazilian domestic market within the Rio Grande do Norte/Ceará region between August 14 and 18. The average retail price for Variety 5-8 reached USD 8.27 per 13 kilogram (kg) pack (BRL 40.94/13kg). The price increase is attributed to robust demand from the European market, prompting a substantial portion of domestic-grown fruit, particularly smaller varieties. This international demand has caused a reduction in the supply available within the domestic market. This trend is forecasted to persist until the European market supply stabilizes in the forthcoming weeks.
Following inspections of areas affected by flood and rain in Chile's south-central region on August 21, the Agriculture Minister assessed crop damage and indicated that food prices might see a limited increase. The most impacted crops include melon, watermelon, beans, carrots, raspberries, and cherries. Maule, O'Higgins University, and Nuflé experienced severe crop damage. However, regions such as Valparaíso, Santiago Metropolitan Region, and the Biobío Region, situated in elevated hill areas, have faced relatively minor harm to agricultural activities.
Melon prices in La Mancha, Spain, rapidly declined week-on-week (WoW), dropping from USD 1.08/kg (EUR 1/kg) to USD 0.39/kg (EUR 0.36/kg) in W34 due to oversupply and cooler temperatures in central Europe, a significant market. In the 2022/23 season, melon cultivation has increased to 5.50 thousand hectares (ha), while watermelon cultivation decreased to around 3.30 thousand ha in Castilla-La Mancha.
Lastly, Belgian melon sales have faced challenges despite increasing visibility in the national market. Unfavorable weather conditions have impacted demand, with cold temperatures and competition from countries like Spain and France affecting sales. The Charentais watermelon season is concluding, while the melon season will continue for conventional and organic products.
