Apple producers in Moldova estimate that the apple harvest this year will be by 14% lower. About 450,000 tonnes of apples are projected to be harvested this year. The drought, limited access to irrigation systems and orchard clear-out have led to a decrease in the harvest, IPN reports.

“About 134,000 tonnes will be designed for export and the level of 2023 will be thus maintained,” said Iurie Fală, executive director of “Moldova Fruct” Association.

According to him, a downward apple production trend is also witnessed in the European Union. The data presented at the annual Prognosfruit 2024 conference, the total apple production in the EU for 2024 is estimated at 10.2 million tonnes, down 11.32% compared to last year and 13.58% compared to the average for the last three years.

The largest decrease is witnessed by Poland. As for the main varieties, the largest decline in the EU is seen in the production of Idared (- 18.4%), Gala (-11.1%) and Golden Delicious (-10.2%).