Prices of Mutsu apples in Poland

2021-04-19 10:51

The first almost full two decades have proved unfavorable for apple prices. Instead of rising, the fruit has cheapened, as the current month has seen a marked decline in export trade activity. Demand from Egypt has fallen and exports to Belarus have also dropped. As a result, prices for most of Poland's main apple varieties have fallen below January's levels. Prince, Idared and Mutsu have avoided this fate. However, these varieties have also been subject to some adjustment.

Mutsu is not one of the most popular varieties grown in Poland. The situation is similar in Europe. But in many seasons Mutsu prices have risen above the average level and this is currently the case.

Mutsu has lagged behind in price for a long time and could not be sold for more than popular (in terms of availability) red apples. The situation changed in February when demand for this apple surged and prices rose. In total, by 23 per cent and the average farm gate price for calibre 70+ was at 1.65 PLN/kg.

However, it is now cheaper. Weakening exports in April forced a correction in Polish wholesale apple prices, including those for Mutsu, although this variety has fared better than most. Now Mutsu purchase prices (for 70+ calibre) are most often 1.40-1.60 PLN/kg, an average of 1.50 PLN/kg, 9 per cent lower than in March. It is also significantly cheaper year-on-year (-21 per cent).

However, the market is seeing a decline in stocks of good quality apples. According to many market players, there is a lot of goods in storage that are only suitable for industry. If this is true, and it is very likely to be confirmed, then even with weaker demand than a year ago, prices for good apples should still recover at least a little. Especially if the weather slows down vegetation and the season extends a little longer. In addition, there are reports from Western Europe that the frosts of last week have also affected apple orchards, which may translate into lower yields next season.

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