Recent Updates from the WPTC Highlight Regional Variations and Challenges
The World Processing Tomato Council (WPTC) has provided its latest update on the European processing tomato harvest as of 26 July. The harvesting season is now underway across most Northern Hemisphere countries. However, recent high temperatures across several regions are raising concerns about their potential impact on yields, though the full extent remains uncertain.
In France, processing commenced on 18 July at a facility in the southeast, with additional plants starting at the end of the month. Harvesting in the southwest is anticipated to begin in mid-August. Despite earlier spring concerns regarding mildew, current yield forecasts appear positive. However, the presence of moths could pose a risk to later crops. The 2024 production forecast for France remains stable at between 170,000 and 180,000 tonnes.
Greece’s last processing plant began operations on 24 July. The production forecast remains steady at 500,000 tonnes, though the prolonged high temperatures approaching 40°C, combined with recent rain and hail, could impact crop yields.
In Northern Italy, processing has begun for specialty varieties such as datterini and cherry tomatoes, with some factories already operational. Fields that experienced excessive rainfall are expected to yield lower volumes of standard round tomatoes. Significant volumes from early crops are projected by early August. In Southern Italy, processing has started for round varieties in the Caserta area, while Puglia is handling long varieties. Concerns persist regarding water availability at the Occhito dam, particularly in the Foggia region.
Portugal has experienced favorable weather conditions for much of the season, but recent spikes in temperatures to 41-42°C may lead to flower abortion in late-season crops. Processing volumes are currently low, but all factories are expected to be fully operational by 5 August. The forecast for Portugal’s processing tomato production stands at 1.5 million tonnes.
In Spain, the initial processing has begun in Andalusia. Cooler weather in June and early July had previously slowed crop growth, but recent high temperatures of 42-43°C have accelerated it. Extremadura faces similar conditions, with most factories starting operations in early August. The high temperatures and dry conditions are fostering pest development and may lead to flower abortion in late tomatoes. A production peak is anticipated by the end of August due to late transplanting, potentially challenging factory capacity. The overall forecast for Spain remains at 2.8 million tonnes.
Turkey’s southern harvest is in full swing, with factories operating at full capacity. Factories in Bursa are expected to begin processing in the first week of August. Despite experiencing particularly hot and humid weather in July, the crops remain in good condition, with no reports of pests or diseases. Turkey’s production forecast for 2024 remains unchanged year-on-year at 2.7 million tonnes.
