Following two freeze events in April and May, Polish apple orchards experienced widespread fruit drop last month, a situation worsened by several recent hailstorms in some areas. As a result, current estimates for Poland’s 2024/25 apple crop have been reduced to just 2.50-3.25 Million MT*, down from earlier expectations of up to 5.00 Million MT. Last season, the industry produced 3.59 Million MT of apples and 265,000 MT of apple juice concentrate. Analysts also expect total European output to reach around 11.10 Million MT this year.
Given these figures, if the Polish crop only reaches 2.50 Million MT, the processing industry will compete for 1.31 Million MT of apples, resulting in around 125,000 MT of apple juice concentrate. If crop production reaches 3.25 Million MT, the industry could produce up to 230,000 MT of concentrate. Raw material prices have surged due to the potential production shortfall this season.
European traders report consistent supply requests with varying contract terms. Some buyers seek coverage until the end of the year, while others are only looking to cover the short term due to market uncertainty. Producers are reportedly offering only small volumes until the new crop production begins.
