The apple and pear sectors from across Europe will gather in Cologne on August 8-9 to share information on the 2003 harvest.

The event is being organised by BVEO, a German federal association of fruit and vegetable producer organisations which also includes the CMA, DMO and ZMP.

Delegates will gather at the Hotel Maritim to enjoy not only the forecasts, but a programme of associated speeches and topical issues yet to be finalised.

This year's congress is likely to benefit from increased support and interest from eastern as well as western European representatives.