The avocado sector in Spain, particularly in the Axarquía of Malaga and the Costa Tropical of Granada, has seen recovery due to the rains in spring and autumn 2024 and the early months of 2025. These regions, alongside southern Portugal, represent 75% of the country's avocado exports. According to the Spanish tropical fruit association (AET), production for the 2024/25 season increased by over 20% from the previous year.
Álvaro Palacios, president of AET, stated that the rainy conditions are largely responsible for this outcome. Notable is the La Viñuela reservoir in Axarquía, which exceeded 50% capacity for the first time in years, enabling resource distribution to farmers after three years of scarcity. Consequently, more than 75,000 tonnes of avocados were harvested this season.
Palacios remarked on the positive harvest results in new production areas of western Andalucía, including Huelva and Cadiz. These areas benefited from favorable weather and increased avocado cultivation. Other contributing regions include Valencia and the Canary Islands, with overall improvement in crop forecasts due to expanded cultivation areas.
Palacios noted the importance of water as a resource for agriculture and the regional economy. He emphasized the necessity for water infrastructure projects in Malaga and Granada's Costa Tropical to support ongoing avocado production and supply to European markets. Palacios stated, "We have to make the most of this advantage, but we need the support of the administrations through the implementation of hydraulic works such as the desalination plant, the connection of accounts, and the measures we have already demanded."
Additionally, Palacios advocated for an organization to consolidate interests across the avocado value chain, from production to marketing, to better engage with administrations. Emphasizing the quality of Spanish avocados and European Union compliance, he highlighted the importance of supporting domestic produce to maintain market position in Europe.
Source: Sur in English