Spain urgently needs a trade body to represent its burgeoning persimon sector, according to a key grower leader.

Although 90 per cent of production is based in the Valencia region, interest in the fruit is increasing among disgruntled citrus growers in other regions such as Andalusia.

According to Cristóbal Aguado, president of Valencia-based growers’ association Ava-Asaja, high pricing in recent seasons is attracting newcomers. He said: “Enormous interest has been aroused in other regions and we are seeing growers buying plant material from Valencia nurseries. But this is in contrast to what is happening in Valencia, where new plantings are at a standstill following the devastation caused by the mycosphaerella nawae fungus this season, which has cost growers millions.

"A national association which also takes into account Valencia’s position of leadership is now essential.”

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