Avocado production in Spain will grow by 20% despite water challenges and international competition

The Spanish Association of Tropical Fruit Growers celebrates the sector's recovery after years of decline, driven by new areas in Cadiz and Huelva, although it warns that drought and global prices continue to limit its expansion.

The Spanish Association of Tropical Fruits (AET) estimates a 20% increase in national avocado production for the 2023/2024 season, reaching over 70,000 tons. This growth is due to new areas in Cádiz and Huelva coming into production, while the traditional growing regions in Málaga and Granada have faced climate challenges and water restrictions.

“We can speak of a slight improvement,” stated Álvaro Palacios, president of the AET, emphasizing that, although the outlook is positive, the lack of water remains a critical obstacle. In Huelva, the main producers have had to reduce cultivated areas to optimize resources, while expansion projects have been canceled. This has limited the sector's growth, despite the region's agricultural potential.

The situation is complicated by competition from international markets, especially Morocco, whose products have impacted prices. According to industry data, the average price per kilo has decreased compared to last year, affecting producers' profitability. However, optimism remains thanks to the consolidation of new cultivation areas and the increase in global avocado consumption.

Source: huelvainformacion.es