Cherry prices fall across Europe as Turkish and Ukrainian supply increases

European cherry markets are experiencing strong supply from Turkey and Ukraine, leading to lower wholesale prices and increased competition among exporters.

Turkey has reported a strong cherry harvest in all growing regions in 2026, with production levels significantly higher than the previous year. Turkish exporters state that demand from Europe remains the highest, and the country's consistent supply has allowed prices to remain balanced and more competitive compared to last season, when availability was lower. Turkish cherries are being exported in large volumes to European buyers, including Germany, Switzerland, Austria, the Netherlands, and Belgium.

Italy has also seen increased cherry availability in 2026. Wholesale prices for Italian cherries in week 26 stood at €2.0/kg for smaller calibres and up to €5.0/kg for larger fruits. This is a significant decrease compared to 2025, when a shortage pushed prices between €5.0 and €10.0/kg. Export competition from Greece and Turkey has reduced Italian cherry exports from the second half of June onwards, especially for the Ferrovia variety.

Ukraine has recorded a higher-than-expected cherry harvest in 2026, resulting in a sharp drop in farm-gate prices. Growers received UAH 40–60/kg, which converts to approximately €1.0–€1.4/kg, several times lower than last season. The abundance of supply has made Ukrainian cherries price-competitive with strawberries and cheaper than raspberries and blueberries. Despite the low prices, production costs for quality cherries remain high.

In Belgium, the cherry season has been marked by variable weather, including rain, heatwaves, and hail threats. Rain caused some fruit cracking, but the use of protective polytunnels has mitigated crop losses. The warm weather has boosted consumption but also created price pressure due to increased availability. Belgian growers are currently harvesting Kordia, as well as white-belly varieties.

In the Netherlands, cherry yields and fruit sizes are reported to be excellent. However, recent heat has impacted both fruit quality and demand. The overall European market is characterized by strong supply, which is putting downward pressure on prices and intensifying competition among major exporters.

American cherry exports to Europe are limited this season due to lower yields in the United States and increased domestic demand related to the FIFA World Cup 2026. This has further reinforced the market position of Turkish and European suppliers in the EU and neighbouring markets, including Poland.

Material prepared by the editorial team of fresh-market.info, editor Artur Spiker