The production is less Greek fruit

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Challenges in the Greek weather has led to the lower output of pears this year, according to Paris Karastergios director of the import and export department for Greek exporter of produce Kastargiou P. Bros S.A.: “Unfortunately, based on the present situation, the volume of pears will decrease around 10% compared to last season. Unfortunate weather conditions before and following the bloom caused lower production as well as a poorer overall quality. The main areas of Greece’s cultivation aren’t particularly affected by bacterial infections but this year we can’t provide larger quantities in order to cover the cost of Italian peaches, and they’re not as good because of hail damage, as well as ailments like septoria. The quality will be high-quality peaches for certain, however they’ll be scarcer than normal, leading to increased prices for cat. It is my intention to pears in the future.”

The acreage used for the cultivation of pears has been declining in Greece however, there are exciting developments happening in this industry, says Karastergios. “Greek pear varieties are getting more attention in increasing countries around the world. They range from Israel and Jordan in which we are a significant presence, with the entire range of varieties we offer and varieties, to UAE, Saudi Arabia and certain Central European countries, where Coscia as well as Santa Maria are being exported to. While the acres were getting each year smaller around 6 or 7 years back, there are areas where apple producers are replacing trees with pear trees particularly those that are destined for industrial use for example, Highland, Williams and Sissy pear varieties. While this is happening there are some farmers who already grow pear trees have switched from Blanquilla varieties to others including Coscia as well as Santa Maria.”

Choosing varieties good for processing will give cultivators more stability financially. Karastergios explains: “Growers switching to varieties specifically designed for industry occurs due to two primary reasons. Efficiency and the weather. The pears yield more tonnes per hectare while requiring less labor as they pick with large bins rather than plastic containers. Meanwhile, the canning industry is less resistant to skin imperfections as well as hail damage. Consequently, the cost of pear to the grower is pretty good, irrespective of their external condition.”

“Overall we are expecting less volume this year, and we’re trying to ensure the same quality that we are renowned for. Hopefully, we will be able to add more kinds to our selection and try to tap into markets in Europe’s Far East and Western Europe,” Karastergios concludes.

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Paris Karastergios

Karastergiou P. Bros S.A.

Tel: +30 24610 26940

Mob: +30 693 2469117

Email: paris.karastergios@karastergioubros.gr

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Source: The Plantations International Agroforestry Group of Companies