Fruit campaign
The fruit season in Lower Aragon-Caspe is in full swing, with an expected crop that is estimated to be “normal”, although slightly higher than last year in terms of production, but not in quality. However, the irregular weather over the last few weeks has affected the first harvest of early cherries, reducing production by up to 90% due to rain and wind.
600 million stone fruit and 300,000 kilos of pip fruit are expected to be harvested throughout Aragon, mainly in Calatayud and La Almunia. Although an acceptable production is expected, growers are still concerned about the uncertainty in prices and rising production costs.
The increase in the price of the first cherries due to the reduction in initial production has had a positive impact, but there are concerns about how this will affect the following productions. In addition, farmers face challenges with steadily rising production costs and the lack of a commensurate increase in selling prices.
The transformation of fruit orchards into almond or olive farms is underway in Bajo Aragón-Caspe, as these productions demand less labour. Lack of profitability and uncertainty about prices are contributing to this change.
Temporary workers
The fruit season also involves an influx of seasonal workers, with around 12,000 seasonal workers employed in the fields and in fruit mills throughout the community. Although there were fears of a labour shortage, this year has not been as problematic, although concerns remain about the availability of workers for tasks in the plants.
There is a change in the hiring trend, with seasonal workers actively seeking employment on the farms, although farmers still face challenges in finding suitable labour. The fruit season, which runs from May to November, presents challenges for both growers and seasonal workers, but also opportunities for the community of Aragon as a fruit exporter.
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