Prince apples most in demand, Polish trade slows, prices stable

Apple trade in Poland has slowed in June, with stable farm-gate prices and the Prince variety most sought after by buyers from Belarus and Romania.

As of 22 June 2026, trading activity for apples in Poland has decreased, affecting both export shipments and domestic supermarket orders. The Prince variety is currently the most sought after, especially by buyers from Belarus and Romania, while demand from distant markets such as Jordan and Egypt has ended for this season.

Farm-gate prices for apples sorted for export or retail remain stable. On 22 June 2026, producer groups offered Prince, Ligol, and Szampion varieties at about €0.37/kg (1.60 PLN/kg). Idared apples for sorting were bought at €0.30–0.33/kg (1.30–1.40 PLN/kg), with some exporters in the Warka region paying €0.35/kg (1.50 PLN/kg) for Idared. Mutsu apples in bulk were purchased at €0.40/kg (1.70 PLN/kg).

Polish apple exports are currently focused on nearby markets. Belarus and Romania are the main recipients, while domestic supermarkets remain significant buyers. Exports to more distant destinations have largely ceased due to reduced availability and quality concerns with stored apples.

Imports of apple concentrate from Ukraine remain high. From the start of the 2025/2026 season until the end of April, Poland imported about 14,400 tons of Ukrainian apple concentrate, equivalent to roughly 100,000 tons of industrial apples. This reflects sustained demand by Polish processors for Ukrainian raw material, as Ukraine remains the largest supplier of apple concentrate to Poland.

Weather conditions earlier in the season included episodes of spring frost and periods of heat stress, which affected both apple trees and other fruit crops. These stresses have influenced plant physiology and may impact yields and fruit quality in some regions.

Compiled from Polish trade press (2026-06-23)