Argentine Chamber of Integrated Fruit Growers (CAFI) expects pear volume to be down 7 percent this season, despite having a normal harvest.
The Abbé Fétel variety was most heavily affected, with a 20% drop in production. However, because it is a smaller variety, the decline did not affect overall volume.
CFAI indicates 180,000 tons will be shipped to the northern hemisphere, and another 50,000 tons to Latin America.
While the U.S. produces pears, CFAI believes the quality may not be as good as some season and this will contribute to Argentina still having a successful season.
Argentina pears are normally shipped by sea until around May to reach the Northern Hemisphere and all year round to Latin America.
It was pointed out by CFAI the USDA made an overly optimistic forcast on Nov. 6, estimating “higher yields for an increase of 317,200 metric tons.
Argentina currently has 49,421 acres planted with pears, but that poor weather and above-average drought conditions in January and February stalled production in 2023-24. Overall, production is estimated to be down by 7 percent.