Argentinean cherry suppliers are looking forward to normal crop volumes in 2008/09 following clement weather conditions to date this season.
The industry expects to export 700,000-800,000 cartons of cherries in total during 2008/09, of which the early production zone in Mendoza will represent some 350,000 cartons, according to Francisco Gabrielli of local grower-exporter Amigo Fruits.
“There is sufficient evidence to suggest that, provided there are no unexpected weather conditions, cherry production in the region of Mendoza will return to normal volumes this year,” Mr Gabrielli told Fruitnet.com.
Echoing Mr Gabrielli’s expectations, one major UK importer confirmed that the weather has been “good” so far, with fruit set for early varieties in Mendoza “looking great”, and orchards planted with Bing cherries “full of blossom”.
“Right now, we couldn't be happier with the way things are looking on orchards, but a lot can happen very quickly `…` we just need nice warm days, cool nights and nothing more for the next few weeks,” the source told Fruitnet.com.
In 2007/08, a devastating frost cut Mendoza’s cherry crop by a drastic 35 per cent in what turned out to be one of the region’s worst seasons on record in terms of both production and returns to growers.
The first Argentinean cherries are due to arrive in Europe at the beginning of November.
