Despite the latest rains and the measures taken by the Guadalquivir Hydrographic Confederation (CHG), the area devoted to garlic in Cordoba remains constant compared to the previous year, when it decreased. The sector expects a more abundant and better quality harvest this season, which starts this month. According to Miguel del Pino, President of Asaja's Garlic Sector in Cordoba, the first work will start after May 15, a delay attributed to a warmer winter.
The cultivated area remains below a thousand hectares, half of that recorded in previous seasons, and far from the 9,000 hectares of the 80s and 90s. Sowing takes place in late autumn and winter, Del Pino stated. At that time, uncertainty over water supply led growers to look for land in other provinces, such as Seville, Malaga, and Castile-La Mancha.
This crop requires an annual investment of 12,000 to 13,000 euros. "If you do not secure your water, you can suffer many losses that can even bankrupt you," Del Pino stated. Thanks to demand, garlic prices remain strong. Last season, they stood at 2.3 euros per kilo, double the previous year's value.
90% of Cordoba's garlic production is destined for exports. According to data from the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Business, in 2024, exports reached 54.7 million euros (+20.5%). Italy leads imports with 16 million euros, followed by the United States with 10.1 million euros. Del Pino said he was concerned about Trump's tariffs, even though they could benefit Spanish producers against China. The U.S. imposed a 120% tariff on China and a 20% tax on Spain.
Source: abc.es