Spain, Netherlands and Morocco: Key Bell Pepper Suppliers Shape European Prices in July

Spanish, Dutch and Moroccan bell pepper supplies continue to dominate Western European wholesale markets in early July, with Spanish red bell peppers trading at €2.8–3.0/kg and Dutch greenhouse peppers at €2.2–2.6/kg.

In Spain, the late spring and early summer harvests of bell peppers (capsicum) from Almería have ended, and new crops from Murcia and Valencia are entering the market. Wholesale prices for Spanish red bell peppers in Western European hubs such as Rungis (France) and Frankfurt (Germany) ranged from €2.8 to €3.0/kg in week 27 (early July), with green varieties trading lower at €1.7–1.9/kg. Demand remains steady from retailers and processors in France, Germany, and the UK, despite higher temperatures affecting vegetable consumption patterns.

Dutch greenhouse bell pepper production is at its seasonal peak. Exporters report stable shipments to Germany, Scandinavia, and the UK. Dutch red and yellow bell peppers are trading at €2.2–2.6/kg on the German wholesale market, while green peppers are priced at €1.8–2.0/kg. Export volumes are slightly higher than in June due to favorable growing conditions and strong demand from Northern European importers. Dutch suppliers face moderate competition from Spanish and Moroccan product, especially in the green and orange segments.

Moroccan bell pepper availability on the EU market remains limited in July as the main export window for Morocco concludes in late spring. However, some Moroccan green peppers are still present in Southern European wholesale markets at €1.5–1.7/kg. Moroccan exporters are focusing on Eastern European destinations, including Poland, where lower prices and off-season availability provide a competitive edge against local and Western European suppliers.

In Italy, domestic pepper production in regions such as Sicily and Campania is increasing supply to the domestic and export markets. Italian red bell peppers are offered at €2.5–2.7/kg on the Milan wholesale market. Export activity is concentrated towards Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. Weather conditions in Southern Italy have been favorable, supporting good yields and stable quality.

The trend towards "fricy" (fruity and spicy) flavor profiles in Western Europe is boosting demand for specialty hot peppers and chili varieties. Retailers in Italy, France, and the UK report double-digit sales growth for chili-based condiments and fresh hot varieties, which may indirectly support demand for standard bell peppers as part of broader pepper category promotions.

Poland, as a major importer, faces increased competition from both Dutch and Spanish suppliers. Wholesale prices for imported red bell peppers in Poland are currently aligned with Western European levels, with typical offers at €2.8–3.0/kg, reflecting limited early local supply and strong demand from retailers and processors.

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