Despite challenges, Spain’s stone fruit sector shows resilience with increased production and promising market trends.
In 2024, Spain’s stone fruit production reached 1.788 million tons, marking a 3% increase from 2023 and a 9% rise compared to the average of the last five seasons. This growth is particularly notable given the ongoing issues of water scarcity and labor shortages affecting the agricultural sector.
Regional Performance Highlights
- Murcia: The region experienced a remarkable 14.8% increase in stone fruit production, primarily driven by an 81.6% surge in apricot yields after two challenging seasons. The Association of Producers and Exporters of Stone Fruit in Murcia (Apoexpa) reported favorable prices, enhancing the region’s market position.
- Andalusia and Aragon: These regions saw production increases of 5.6% and 1.3%, respectively, contributing positively to the national output.
- Catalonia and Extremadura: In contrast, Catalonia faced a 7.9% decline, and Extremadura saw a 2.3% decrease in production. These reductions were attributed to persistent drought conditions, flowering issues—especially in plums—and a reduction in cultivated areas due to the removal of certain varieties.
Challenges and Market Dynamics
Extremadura’s season was characterized by lower yields due to pollination problems, yet farmers reported satisfactory returns. Looking ahead to 2025, there is cautious optimism, tempered by concerns over labor availability. Additionally, exports to Brazil, a key market for Extremadura’s stone fruit, faced setbacks due to currency devaluation, leading to market imbalances. The upcoming season’s market developments will be crucial in assessing these impacts.
Spain’s stone fruit industry has demonstrated resilience amid environmental and economic challenges. Strategic regional performances and favorable market conditions have bolstered production and profitability. However, addressing labor shortages and navigating international market fluctuations remain critical for sustaining growth in the coming years.
