Tunisia faces severe supply disruptions; Andalusian tomato export value rises
Power outages in Tunisia are disrupting tomato processing and risking up to 35% of the harvest, while Andalusian tomato exports to the EU fell in volume but rose in value, with average prices at €1.95/kg.
In Tunisia, recurring power cuts driven by a heatwave at the end of July have severely disrupted the tomato sector, especially in the Cap Bon region. Of the region’s 14 processing plants, only 5–6 are currently operational, with the rest forced to reduce intake from growers due to insufficient electricity for continuous operation. Delays in processing have led to increased spoilage, with growers sometimes waiting days to deliver their harvest. The Tunisian Tomato Growers’ Association estimates nearly 35% of the country’s tomato harvest is at risk due to these disruptions. Many farms are unable to irrigate properly, causing plant dehydration and further crop losses during the sector’s processing peak period. These supply issues may restrict Tunisia’s ability to export processed tomato products to European markets, potentially tightening supply and impacting prices in importing countries, including Poland.
In Spain, Andalusian tomato exports for the first nine months of the 2025/26 campaign (September–May) decreased by 4% in volume to 368,397 tonnes for the EU market, but export value rose by 7%. The average export price to the EU was €1.95/kg, while extra-EU shipments—up 12% in volume—reached an average of €2.82/kg. EU sales generated €718.2 million, up 6%, and extra-EU sales €46.2 million, up 23%. These figures indicate strong price dynamics despite lower volumes, with export values benefiting from higher average prices compared to the previous season. The monthly price trend mirrored last year, peaking in February and declining in April.
In Italy, the fresh tomato market has seen downward pressure on prices due to an abundant seasonal supply, while red tomato prices are falling alongside other vegetables like cauliflower and zucchini. Extreme weather events—including heatwaves and hailstorms—continue to challenge Italian fruit and vegetable producers, but no specific wholesale price figures for tomatoes were reported for late July.
Valencia, Spain, is investing in the genetic improvement of traditional tomato varieties to enhance adaptation, productivity, and quality. Experimental plots in the Vall d’Albaida region are testing both traditional and improved lines, with the aim of increasing competitiveness and meeting growing demand for local, high-quality tomatoes.
Labour shortages and increased absenteeism continue to pose structural challenges for Spain’s horticultural sector, affecting productivity and the ability to meet commercial commitments. These factors may influence supply reliability and future export performance.
Material prepared by the editorial team of fresh-market.info, editor Artur Spiker · Illustrative image generated by AI