Optimism prevails at the Spanish fruit and vegetable sector

At a press conference on May 14, the largest Spanish association of industries and distribution of consumer goods AECOC presented the 27th edition of the AECOC Congress of Fruit & Vegetables, next May 27 and 28 at the Palacio de Congreso in Valencia. The association also shared a recent survey of more than 67 leading companies in the fruit and vegetable sector. These included 12 supermarket chains, which represent the vast majority of Spanish food distribution.

75% of companies positive about the growth of the sector in 2025

8 out of 10 companies interviewed said they had grown in value in the first quarter of 2025, 42% of them with more than 5% increase in turnover. Sixty percent of them confirm that they will maintain or even improve their profitability. Seventy-five percent of the chains surveyed are optimistic about the sector's growth in 2025, including exports. Forty-five percent of those surveyed devote more than 50% of their sales to foreign markets: on average, 44% of their turnover comes from the domestic market, 49% from the rest of Europe and 5% from overseas.

Uncertainties: Mercosur, Trump and regulations

According to 52% think that the Mercosur agreement could have an impact on their activity, 43% of respondents think that it will affect their profitability. Regarding the policies of US President Trump, only 37% think it will negatively affect their exports. Spanish legislation recently became a "risk" factor for 58% of respondents. Among the worrying "regulatory avalanches" are cited the new "Packaging and Waste Law" decree or the 37.5-hour work week. They entail additional charges for companies. 65.7% of the companies ask the public administration to be more listened to before legislating.

300 companies and 700 managers to meet at the 27th congress

During the press conference, AECOC announced the program of the 27th Fruit and Vegetable Congress. It expects to host about 300 companies and 700 managers, including the vast majority of Spanish supermarket chains. The program is divided into 2 half-days on May 28 and 29. Latest trends in the sector will be presented by speakers from Mercamadrid, Ministry of Agriculture, El Corte Ingles, United Nations, AmFresh, Vinces, Semillas Fitó, Permanent Mission of Spain to the UN, NIQ, Eroski, AECOC, Grupo Cajamar.

For more information about the survey or the program, please write here.