Almeria's vegetable production is at the end of its cycle and plants are not supplying the same levels of quality as during the autumn and winter, making the produce less suitable for long distance shipments. "In recent weeks, the European markets have also been introducing produce from different origins such as the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany, which have started earlier this year, severely affecting us," says Paco Espejo, president of Espefrut.
Most vegetables are reaching low prices at this time, except for green beans, whose price has gone up for all varieties. Melons and watermelons reach the highest prices, as they are just the first batches of the season.
Therefore, due mainly to the clash with the start of production in the Netherlands, vine tomatoes reach around 0.15 €/kg at origin in auctions and pear tomatoes stand at around 0.28 €/kg. Meanwhile, aubergines reach around 0,45 €/kg and courgette prices continue to decrease, now standing at 0.15 €/kg. Peppers have hit rock bottom with just 0.15 €/kg for the green bell pepper variety and 0.20 €/kg for the Lamuyo.
All types and varieties of green beans have increased in price, with flat green beans reaching 1.75 €/kg at auction. "Right now, only Spain has a quality bean production, as Morocco, which is currently the largest producer at the lowest prices, finishes its cycle around this time, which entails significant drops in quality, reaching European shelves in a partially dehydrated state," points out Paco Espejo.
Processed black watermelon prices reach between 0.60 and 0.75 €/kg, and the white seedless, yellow, Crimson and Fashion all stand around the 0.80€/kg.
The European Union traditionally remains the main market for Spanish vegetable exporters, although in recent years the Russian market is gaining popularity and the United Arab Emirates has taken off this season. The latter "offers good prices and demands very high levels of quality and freshness, which makes maritime shipments unthinkable," explains Paco Espejo. Although transport is the biggest challenge, shipments by air have proven successful, even though the costs are higher. It is a risky market, as it is essential to know when to send the fruit and when to stop exporting to ensure the quality standards are always maintained. It is an untapped market," he adds.
Paco Espejo, president of Espefrut.Espefrut was founded just three years ago, when the fresh produce department managers of various supermarket chains decided to join forces and start their own business in Almeria devoted to the direct trade of fresh produce between growers and retailers to reduce costs, offering innovative services such as auction purchases under the client's name and handling and quality control services at origin.
Although specialised in traditional vegetables grown in Almeria (tomatoes, cucumbers, aubergines, courgettes, green beans, peppers, etc.) Espefruit works with all kinds of fruits and vegetables throughout the year. "Since we started we have already doubled our sales volume and hope to continue growing in the coming years."
Contact information:
Paco Espejo
Espefrut S.L.T:+34 635458894
[email protected][email protected]www.espefrut.net 
