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Egypt’s fresh strawberry season began with slow demand due to high initial prices of USD 16 per 2.5 kilogram (kg) box. As production increased and the market adjusted, prices fell by over 40% month-on-month (MoM) to USD 9/2.5kg box, aligning with market expectations. This price drop revitalized demand and boosted exports to primary markets, including Europe, the Far East, and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
Fresh Greek strawberries entered export markets with limited early-season availability, well below the winter peak production of 15 to 20 tons per hectare (ha). Due to constrained supply, exports to German and Dutch retailers are priced at USD 7 per kilogram (kg) Ex Works (EXW). However, prices may rapidly decline to USD 3/kg if European economic conditions deteriorate and demand weakens ahead of Valentine’s Day, a critical period for strawberry exports.
Morocco's strawberry harvest began earlier than anticipated this season due to warm temperatures despite a 10% reduction in acreage. Export volumes are expected to remain stable, supported by improved quality and a 10 to 15% price increase. While Egyptian competition may influence market dynamics, the premium reputation of Moroccan strawberries sustains demand. With steady production and exports beginning ten days ago, peak volumes are projected for March, ensuring stable demand through the year's end.
The Philippines lifted its ban on Japanese strawberry imports, effective December 15, 2024, following technical discussions between Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF) and Philippine quarantine authorities. Initially imposed due to pest concerns, the ban was resolved through collaborative efforts, marking a significant step in enhancing agricultural trade. This agreement improves the availability of Japanese strawberries in the Philippine market, fostering stronger trade ties between the two countries.
Gimje City in North Jeolla Province, South Korea, exported 200 kg of Geumsil and Seolhyang strawberries to the Philippines from an innovative farm managed by Berry Rice, an agricultural corporation. This initial shipment signals the start of plans to steadily increase exports through the following spring harvest. City officials emphasized their dedication to expanding international sales channels and providing continuous support to boost future exports.
Turkey's strawberry production season, from November to May, has gained momentum with higher yields and improved fruit quality by focusing on hydroponic methods. Producers are satisfied with current prices and the growing international demand, mainly as Turkish strawberries offer a cost-effective alternative to pricier Egyptian exports. The strawberries, with their long shelf life and consistent quality, are helping Turkey strengthen its market presence, particularly in the Middle East and Asia. Despite rising production costs, this season's yield is expected to surpass previous years unless extreme weather occurs.
Strawberry prices in Mexico rose by 2.19% week-on-week (WoW) to USD 2.80/kg in W50, reflecting a substantial 33.33% MoM increase and an 8.53% year-on-year (YoY) rise. The price increase is due to continued tight supply from unfavorable weather conditions, including rain and cloud cover, which have reduced harvest volumes. Additionally, strong demand from domestic and international markets and stabilized shipments have pushed prices higher. The YoY increase reflects a recovery from last year's lower prices caused by an oversupply linked to extreme weather.
In W50, strawberry prices in the United States (US) held steady WoW at USD 6.04/kg, marking a 1.85% MoM increase and a 4.68% YoY rise due to ongoing tight supply conditions caused by adverse weather, including rain in California and hurricanes in Florida, which have continued to disrupt production and delay harvests. Harvest volumes are expected to remain light until mid-Jan-25 or Feb-25, which has contributed to price stability. The YoY increase results from a lower base of comparison from last year when supply was constrained, but not to the same extent, leading to higher prices in the current season.
Italy's strawberry prices dropped by 10.02% WoW to USD 7.36/kg, with a 46.97% dip MoM and a 24.97% YoY decline. The price drop is due to a seasonal adjustment in supply following the completion of the peak autumn harvest. Production in regions like Lazio, Emilia-Romagna, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and Veneto had been strong, resulting in increased market availability and a temporary oversupply after the initial surge. As the peak harvest periods wind down, prices are expected to stabilize, with a slight increase anticipated as the Christmas season approaches and demand for strawberries rises again.
Turkish strawberry producers should expand their focus on emerging markets in the Middle East and Asia, capitalizing on their hydroponically grown strawberries' cost-effectiveness and consistent quality. Producers can strengthen their market presence by securing long-term supply agreements with international distributors and enhancing their export strategies to cater to the growing demand for Turkish strawberries. Ensuring timely shipments and high-quality standards will help maintain competitiveness and secure a steady revenue stream.
Farms in South Korea should focus on expanding their international export channels by targeting new markets and enhancing distributor relationships. By diversifying market reach, improving product packaging to align with regional preferences, and investing in strategic marketing, farms can increase their global footprint. Additionally, continuous product innovation and adapting to consumer trends will help sustain export growth and strengthen the country’s position in the international strawberry market.
Strawberry producers in the US should focus on improving supply chain resilience by investing in technology for real-time monitoring of weather patterns and crop conditions, allowing for quicker adjustments to production plans. Diversifying sourcing locations and developing partnerships with local farms can help mitigate the impact of regional weather disruptions. Optimizing post-harvest handling and storage practices, such as improving temperature control and reducing transit time, will prevent spoilage and ensure that strawberries reach the market in optimal condition. These steps will help maintain consistent supply, avoid further delays, and support price stability in the market.
Sources: Tridge, Eastfruit, Freshplaza, GMA News Online, Italianberry, Maff, Yna
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