Spanish garlic producers must expect significant losses

Not only the quality and quantity of the crop, but also other additional costs make life difficult for Spanish garlic growers. (Photo: Pixabay)

The Spanish ANPCA, which is the largest European garlic producer organization and brings together 1,800 producers and 67 companies, reported at the Las Pedroñeras International Garlic Fair that it farmed 15,397 hectares this year, and its production was more than 256,000 tons, but even with this amount, 20 percent the growers are forced to register a loss. This amount represents 65% of the total European turnover and 80% of the amount appearing on the Spanish market.

The drought was not good for garlic

The rapid warming at the end of spring and beginning of summer caused a serious disturbance in the garlic vegetation, as it accelerated the ripening process and therefore the crop had to be harvested earlier. However, both the size and the quality of the onions fell short of what they were used to.

Production, logistics and storage costs are also unfavorable this year

According to ANPCA’s calculations, production-related expenses rose by an average of 21%, which was compounded by the loss due to a poorer harvest, so it cost approximately 37% more to produce one kilogram of garlic this year. The storage of the crop will once again mean a serious cut, as the garlic is stored for up to 11 months before it reaches the consumers, but due to the international situation, energy prices have increased, which will also be reflected in the cooling costs. In addition, the company is forecasting a decrease in Spanish garlic exports, as logistics prices have also risen significantly.

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