The Brazilian melon season, which is due to kick off in the second week of August, is set to produce a bumper crop this year, according to Netherlands-based Frankort & Koning (F&K), one of Europe’s leading importers.
Grower-exporter Agrícola Famosa (Intermelon) recently completed its acquisition of leading Brazilian melon supplier Nolem’s production and packing operations in a move which consolidated the company’s position as Brazil’s largest melon operator.
This year, the group is said to be planning an early start to the season. Together with its receivers on the continent – Total Produce, Chiquita and F&K – preparations for the start of the campaign in late August / early September are already underway.
The first harvest is due to start in week 32, the only difference this season being that volumes are forecast to be roughly 40 per cent higher than they were last season.
“Stronger varieties, new production techniques and improved post-harvest treatments will ensure stronger and better melons for export,” suggests Leon van den Hombergh, commercial director at F&K. “The start will be with Galia, Cantaloupe, yellow melons and watermelons, with the Piel de Sapo varieties starting a few weeks later.”
Following a successful season in 2009/10, the Brazilian melon industry is said to be “very confident” for the future, with a number of recent improvements set to make it easier and easier for exporters to meet their customers’ requirements.
