Positive forecasts for stone fruit in Aragon: 630,000 tons expected

After a spring of persistent rainfall, Aragonese fruit growers are preparing for a stone fruit season with positive prospects. According to the Union of Farmers and Ranchers of Aragon (UAGA-COAG), the region expects a harvest of around 630,000 tons — 3.5% more than in 2024.

This growth is mainly attributed to abundant water reserves, which have favored crops like peaches (estimated at 240,000 tons, +6.09%) and nectarines (160,000 tons, +8.22%).

Not all fruits share the same outlook. Apricot production is expected to drop by 23.25% (to 27,000 tons) due to poor fruit set caused by spring rains. Cherries will also see a decrease of 8-9%, with an estimated yield of 31,000 to 35,000 tons.

The campaign will require around 20,000 seasonal workers across fieldwork, logistics, and warehousing. Despite an 8% reduction in cultivated area in recent years, Aragon remains a national leader, producing up to four times more stone fruit than France, according to Óscar Moret, provincial secretary of UAGA Huesca.

Nevertheless, the sector faces ongoing challenges: reduced surface area, pressure from investment funds, limited agricultural insurance coverage, and imbalances in the value chain.

source: europapress.es

photo: directoalpaladar.com