Initial estimates point to the loss of 70 per cent of the crop in some areas following this week’s violent storms
The Spanish Kaki Association has issued a statement warning of serious damage after this week’s devastating storms in the province of Valencia and expressing its solidarity with the victims of the disaster.
“The storms have affected kaki production and caused significant losses in the agricultural sector. In addition to the material damage, we deeply regret the loss of life and the injuries caused by this phenomenon and we convey our deepest support and solidarity to the affected families in these difficult times,” the association said.
The impact has been devastating for the kaki crop in Valencia, especially in the areas of greatest production. According to the first estimates, the losses exceed 70 per cent of the harvest in many areas, due to torrential rains, accompanied by winds and hail, causing the fruit to fall from the tree and leaving and considerable damage to plantations.
The association said it has not yet been possible to assess all of the damage as many roads remain closed and access to many farms is impossible. “This damage, in addition to affecting this season’s production, compromises crop yields in the coming years, as many trees have suffered structural damage that will require time and costly recovery efforts,” it said.
The association called on the government to immediately implement support measures for affected farmers. “We request direct aid, tax breaks and a specific recovery plan for kaki producers, a crop that has become an economic and cultural pillar of the Valencian region.
“We also ask for a firm commitment from the authorities to improve drainage and protection infrastructure in agricultural areas, in order to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change,” it said.
