The 13th edition of the Interpoma has officially started with the President of Fiera Bolzano, Greti Ladurner’s opening speech highlighting the importance of the sector on the world stage. She was followed by Francesco Lollobrigida, the Italian Minister for Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Forests, who reiterated the apple-growing industry’s importance – a symbol of Italy’s quality and sustainability – as well as acknowledging Interpoma’s prestige and uniqueness.
The Opening Night also provided an update about international apple harvest figures, data which was first shared during the Prognosfruit in Budapest.
Philippe Binard, Secretary General of the WAPA (World Apple and Pear Association) started by sharing apple-growing figures in the European Union. He confirmed that this year’s harvest was unique – with apple availability on the fresh fruits and processed fruits markets having dropped especially the Golden Delicious and Gala varieties, which have shrunk by 10% and 11% compared to 2023. However, the Red Delicious yield has increased by 20%, while new varieties have maintained their harvest record. The cause for this drop in yield was adverse weather, especially spring frost which impacted most of Europe.
The YOY apple stock as of November 2024 is lower across many countries – indicative of lower yields – except for Italy, Spain, and Switzerland, whose stock levels have increased compared to the previous year. Giovanni Missanelli, Assomela, informed the audience about Italy’s slightly higher yield vis-a-vis data shared in August, reaching around 2.248.000 tons, boasting overall good size and great quality. The figures for South Tyrol are in line with those from the previous year, while Trentino experienced a dip. Piedmont, Veneto, and Emilia-Romagna have registered higher numbers. Organic apple yield is in line with the 2023 harvest (7% of the total).
Export-wise, European countries are performing well, especially exports to South America (including Brazil); however, logistics issues remain due to complex geopolitical situations.
