#Agriculture #FruitSales #Cherry #Strawberry #Farming #CropYield #MarketTrends
In recent months, the sales of cherries and strawberries in Russia have witnessed a significant surge. Biologist and agronomist, Mikhail Vorobiev, sheds light on the possible reasons behind this growth, attributing it to the expansion of cultivation areas. In an interview with RT, he elaborated on the development and its potential consequences for the market.
Vorobiev explains, “If cultivation and planting areas have increased, it naturally leads to a higher yield. Consequently, we now have more of these fruits on our shelves. It is evident that if people are consuming cherries, they are less likely to opt for grapes. As a result, the demand for grapes has decreased, leading to reduced imports.”
According to Vorobiev, the demand for berries is unlikely to decrease in the near future. During the summer, individuals actively stock up on vitamins by consuming fruits and berries. Additionally, many people freeze berries for long-term use, prepare jams and preserves, thus further contributing to the market’s demand.
The article highlights the statistical data from “Taxcom,” the fiscal data operator, indicating a significant increase in sales of cherries and strawberries. Compared to the same period last year, cherry sales have risen by one-third, despite a considerable price hike.
“The average price of cherries in Russia in May 2023 was 450 rubles per kilogram. The average price increased by 11%, and sales rose by 34% compared to the same period in 2022,” notes the analysts.
As for strawberries, the average price in May across Russia stood at 475 rubles per kilogram, with a 6% increase in sales compared to the previous year. Blueberry sales witnessed a notable growth of 23%, while grape sales decreased by 4%. Experts believe that the grape season in Russia begins in early autumn when demand is expected to rise significantly.
The rise in cherry and strawberry sales in Russia can be attributed to the expansion of cultivation areas, resulting in increased yield and availability of these fruits in the market. Consumers’ preference for berries during the summer season, driven by the desire for vitamins and preserving methods, has further contributed to the surge in demand. Although the price increase has not deterred buyers, market trends suggest potential shifts in fruit preferences, with cherries and strawberries outpacing grapes. As the grape season approaches, experts anticipate a resurgence in demand for this fruit.
