Yonatan Meron, Granot Fresh's export manager in Israel, reports that the European Hass avocado market is experiencing excellent performance, anticipating that high prices will continue until the end of the season.

The avocado harvest in Israel is in full swing, reaching over 5,000 tons per week, with 65% of the fruit being Hass avocados and the remainder green-skinned varieties. Meron describes the European Hass market as strong, with prospects for continued high demand and prices until the end of the season, as other winter suppliers are experiencing supply shortages.

Despite the stability in the green-skinned varieties, the concern lies in the shortage of labor for harvesting and packing due to border restrictions caused by the war in Gaza and the military mobilization in Israel.

Regarding the Orri mandarin season, Meron indicates a promising start, although recent rains have had a slight impact. The Orri harvest began three weeks ago, with weekly improvements in the color and appearance of the boxes. However, the rain has limited the volume loaded in Israel, and lower Orri exports are anticipated compared to last year, generating expectations of strong demand and higher prices.

The current situation in Israel, marked by war and mobility restrictions, presents the most significant challenge for producers, who face a shortage of essential labor for harvesting and packing tasks.

Source: Fresh Plaza