Spanish exports of fresh fruit and vegetables are expected to close 2024 with notable growth of 6%, exceeding 18 billion euros, according to forecasts from Fepex (Spanish Federation of Producers-Exporters of Fruit, Vegetables, Flowers). and live plants). This performance, driven by an 8% increase in volume reaching more than 12 million tonnes, illustrates the strength of the sector despite the multiple challenges it faces.
Confirmed dynamism on international markets andstructural challenges for production
The increase in exports is attributed to the competitiveness of Spanish producers in international markets. With increasing volumes and increased diversification of outlets, Spain is consolidating its position as European leader in the fresh fruit and vegetable sector. The main export markets remain the countries of the European Union, but new opportunities are also emerging outside the continent.
At the same time, imports of fruit and vegetables continue to grow at a sustained pace. Between January and October 2024, they increased by 6.5% in volume, reaching 3.6 million tonnes, for a value up 12%, or 4.08 billion euros. This dynamic highlights growing demand, but also highlights increased competition for local producers.
The year 2024, however, was marked by growing concerns within the sector, notably due to the lack of water resources, the labor deficit and the increase in production costs. According to Fepex, these constraints weigh heavily on the competitiveness of Spanish producers. The shortage of phytosanitary products, accentuated by strict European regulations, also limits efficient and safe production capacities.
Faced with these obstacles, the Fepex welcomes the recent withdrawal by the European Commission of a draft regulation on the sustainable use of phytosanitary products, initially presented in 2022. The organization hopes that the new text expected in 2025 will take into account the specificities of European production, subject to standards that are much more demanding than those of third countries.
Increased international competition and poutlook for 2025
Fepex is also concerned about third countries, particularly Mercosur, which benefit from more flexible conditions in terms of phytosanitary, social and environmental standards. This situation weakens the competitiveness of European producers on their own market.
To counter these disadvantages, Fepex calls for a revitalization of community preference. This would involve, in particular, the application of safeguard measures when imports reach volumes that seriously disrupt markets or harm local production. In addition, it recommends strengthening reciprocity clauses in trade agreements, particularly on environmental and phytosanitary aspects, in order to establish fair conditions between European producers and their international competitors.
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In a context of strong growth in exports, but also of intensifying international competition, the Spanish fruit and vegetable sector finds itself at a strategic turning point. Concrete measures to reduce administrative burdens, harmonize standards between the EU and third countries, and preserve the competitiveness of producers will be essential to maintain the positive dynamics of the sector.
