Spain’s fruit and vegetable exports are an important part of its economy and contribute significantly to its position as one of the world’s leading food producers and exporters. In 2022, 12 million tonnes of fruit and vegetables were exported, which is 10.4% less than in 2021. According to data analysed by FEPEX, the Spanish Federation of Associations of Exporting Producers of Fruit, Vegetables, Flowers and Live Plants, the downward forecast for international sales of perishable products has been confirmed.
This sharp decline in the volume of fresh fruit and vegetable exports is due to several factors:
Commodity inflation: a generalised increase in food prices, in this case for fruit and vegetables.
Adverse weather conditions: droughts, floods, hailstorms or frosts, which have negatively affected the quality and quantity of production.
Changes in market demand: a reduction in demand for fruit and vegetable products due to higher prices or low availability and accessibility of certain products.
The diversification of supply, the incorporation of advanced technology in its facilities or the strengthening of the supply chain are some of the strategies that the SAM Algeciras multimodal logistics platform has adopted to face the decline in fruit and vegetable exports in 2022.
A key region for the Spanish agricultural sector
One of the most influential territories in the fruit and vegetable industry is Andalucia, as it has a great diversity of crops and a long agricultural tradition. In the first ten months of 2022, this region reached a new record for fruit and vegetable exports, with 5,539 million euros, its highest ever in the period from January to October since there have been comparable records (1995).
According to data from Extenda, the Andalusian Agency for Foreign Promotion, the region has consolidated its leading position in fruit and vegetable exports in Spain, representing 41% of total national sales, equivalent to 13,420 million euros. This means that it far outstrips other important regions in this area such as the Valencian Community (22.2%) and the Region of Murcia (18.6%).
The agricultural sector, especially in Andalucia, has demonstrated its capacity for adaptation and resilience in the face of the challenges of the global market. Moreover, it has been committed to innovation and technology in agricultural production, which has improved the efficiency and quality of crops.
SAM Algeciras, the best ally for cold logistics
Cold logistics is essential to ensure the food safety and well-being of perishable products, such as fruit, vegetables, meat, fish or dairy products, which must be kept at a specific temperature throughout the distribution and storage process.
SAM Algeciras, a multimodal logistics platform integrated in Alonso Group, has stood out in this sector thanks to its experience and knowledge in cold chain management. The company has a large fleet of vehicles specialised in cold logistics and storage facilities with temperature and humidity control systems to guarantee the preservation of products during storage.
SAM Algeciras specialisation in cold logistics has enabled it to develop close relationships with companies in various sectors, from the food industry to the pharmaceutical industry, which rely on its services to guarantee the quality and freshness of their products. In addition, its experience in the transport and storage of perishable products has enabled it to develop efficient and safe processes that allow it to meet the quality and safety requirements of its customers.