ZAGREB, 9 Aug (Hina) - The European Union's apple harvest this year is expected to remain almost unchanged from last year, while Croatia faces a sharp 27% decline, according to estimates from the World Apple and Pear Association (WAPA) presented at the Prognosfruit conference in Angers, France.
Speaking about the event, held on 7 August, Branimir Markota, president of the Croatian Fruit Growers Association (HVZ), said WAPA - in cooperation with France's National Apples and Pears Association (ANPP) - unveiled its official forecast for the 2025/2026 season.
According to WAPA data, EU apple production is projected at 10.45 million tonnes, down just 0.1% from last year, but still 7.5% below the three- and five-year averages. Pear production in the EU is expected to rise 1.4% to 1.79 million tonnes, although this remains 2.5% below the three-year average.
Croatia's apple output shrinks, prices set to rise
In Croatia, apple production is forecast at 48,000 tonnes, down from 66,000 tonnes last year - 23.5% below the three-year average. Markota warned that a large proportion of this year's harvest will be destined for industrial processing, with only 30,000-35,000 tonnes likely to go into long-term storage.
Pear production remains modest at around 2,000 tonnes. Markota noted that the season begins with minimal carryover stocks, while producers continue to face rising costs, labour shortages, and increasing climate uncertainty.
"The rising costs, lack of workers, and growing climate volatility are putting the long-term sustainability of fruit production at risk," he said, adding that with declining overall apple output, the volume stored for the market is also shrinking - creating upward pressure on prices.
Retail prices for apples in the upcoming season are expected to range between €2.00 and €2.30 per kilogram, depending on variety and quality. Farm-gate prices for first-class apples are expected to be around €0.80/kg, while second-class fruit is unlikely to exceed €0.30–€0.35/kg, due to the government's cap on the price of 2 kg packages.
Markota also warned that despite stable EU production overall, market and political factors - including uncertainty over the Common Agricultural Policy, stricter environmental requirements, and differing national regulations - leave the sector vulnerable and highlight the need for a stronger, unified European agricultural strategy.
Prognosfruit is Europe's leading forum for the apple and pear sector, attracting over 230 participants from 23 countries this year, including delegates from the EU, United States, China, and the southern hemisphere.
The next Prognosfruit conference will be held in Germany on 5-7 August 2026.
