Southern European field tomato harvests strong as dry, hot weather limits disease pressure

Field-grown tomatoes in key southern European producer countries are currently in very good condition, with dry and warm weather reducing the risk of late blight and supporting stable supply.

In Spain and Italy, the ongoing summer harvest of field tomatoes is progressing under predominantly dry and hot weather, which has contributed to healthy crops and limited outbreaks of major diseases such as late blight. Growers report very good plant condition, and no major interruptions to supply are expected in August. This stable production environment is supporting steady availability for export markets, including Central and Eastern Europe.

Trade sources from the Netherlands and Belgium indicate continued strong competition from southern European suppliers, particularly as the main Spanish and Italian harvests coincide with peak seasonal demand in northern Europe. Wholesale prices for standard round tomatoes in Spain currently range from €1.1 to €1.3 per kg, while Italian tomatoes fetch €1.2–€1.4 per kg on export markets for the first week of August. Dutch greenhouse tomato prices remain higher, averaging €1.8–€2.0 per kg, reflecting persistent energy-related production costs.

Export demand towards Central and Eastern European markets, including Poland, remains robust as buyers seek large volumes of competitively priced field tomatoes. Polish importers continue to source significant quantities from Spain and Italy, attracted by both the price advantage and stable product quality. Southern European suppliers are also benefiting from logistical efficiencies due to favorable weather, supporting timely deliveries.

In addition to favorable weather, southern European producers are increasing use of biocontrol solutions to manage pests and maintain yields during periods of abiotic stress, such as drought or heat waves. This strategy is aimed at further securing consistent supply to export markets during the critical late summer period.

Dutch and Belgian greenhouse producers are monitoring developments closely as competition from field-grown tomatoes intensifies in August. The seasonal price gap between greenhouse and field tomatoes is expected to persist until the autumn transition.

Material prepared by the editorial team of fresh-market.info, editor Artur Spiker · Illustrative image generated by AI