FRUIT AND VEGETABLE NEWS
South Africa boosts citrus exports in 2026
The Southern Hemisphere citrus export campaign is set to begin with moderate growth forecasts for 2026. According to estimates published by the Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA), total export volumes could increase by between 3% and 5%, reaching between 210 and 215 million 15 kg cartons
Türkiye positions itself as an industrial bridge with MAKTEK
European industry continues to face high energy and labour costs, while the recovery of industrial production across the EU in 2024 and 2025 has remained uneven
New blueberry varieties strengthen Onubafruit
The CPVO (Community Plant Variety Office) grants EU plant variety rights to eight blueberry varieties, valid until 2056
La Linea Verde strengthens its expansion with two acquisitions in Europe
The company boosts the fresh soup category and consolidates its position in the “fresh convenience” segment in Northern Europe
Retail sector calls for digital labelling as a driver of the Single EU Market
The European Commission identifies fragmented labelling as one of the “ten terrible barriers” to the Single EU Market and competitiveness
EU packaging regulation enters into force in August 2026
Regulation will tighten sustainability, recyclability and compliance requirements across the food supply chain
Fall Creek introduces Apex blueberry, targeting early-season supply gaps
New variety combines long shelf-life, high yield potential and consistent fruit quality for global markets
Mastronardi Produce® brings fresh innovation to CPMA
Mastronardi Produce® is gearing up to showcase new innovations in fresh snacking and packaging at the 2026 Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) Convention and Tradeshow in Toronto. Visitors to booth 521 will experience two standout SUNSET® innovations – both submitted for recognition in this year’s CPMA showcase categories, along with chef-prepared recipes, irresistible tastings, and a firsthand look at what’s next for fresh produce
France produces more organic potatoes despite declining consumption
Organic potato production in France, particularly in the case analysed by the CNIPT, is facing a paradoxical situation: while production and yields are increasing significantly, consumption in retail is declining. This imbalance is shaping the market and influencing its short- and medium-term outlook
Seedless is more: How Hazera is redefining the mini watermelon category
Seedless is More is more than a slogan; it is a clear concept guiding the development of mini watermelons. Hazera’s seedless portfolio is designed to deliver value across the chain all year round, combining strong field performance with the quality and convenience expected by the market
Tensions in Iran could impact fertiliser production in Spain
Industry warns that prolonged trade disruptions may lead to plant closures and threaten supply for the next planting season
Late-March cold spell causes significant losses in Valencia’s agricultural sector
Around 1,200 hectares affected by an atypical temperature event hitting crops at a critical growth stage
