The situation is dire for Italian pear growers. Data released during Prognosfruit outlined a significant yield loss in the country. There will be a lack of product, but fortunately the situation is not as bad as in 2021.

"However, this year there will be very few Italian pears. We will have about 30% of the potential yield available. The most affected varieties are Abate Fetel and Decana. And the available fruit is not always satisfactory in quality either. The causes are unfavorable weather conditions such as frost, hailstorms and floods, as well as plant diseases that we continue to fight as best and worst as we can. As for the latter, those who have failed to do so have lost everything," said Savino Tiraboschi, director of the San Francesco and Ortobergamo farms.

"Producers have all been knocked out and therefore ad hoc interventions are needed. In fact, the high prices we see on the market are not enough to cover growing costs."

Tiraboschi also pointed out that many growers are quitting. "Pear growers are tired of losing money and many have already significantly reduced their acreage and will continue to do so in the future."

And while in Italy the data regarding the sector are disappointing, in Belgium a very positive campaign is expected for pears.

"The fact that we have little product available in Italy does not necessarily mean that sales prices will also be much higher. At the same time, Belgians will benefit from that, as their pears have actually been available in Italy for several years now. In this new season, as in future ones, we will hardly be saved from their dominance. Finally, another important player in the pear fruit market is Spain."

Source - https://www.freshplaza.com