The Southern summer was particularly intense this year, leading to abundant and early production across all the Indian Ocean sources. With the exception of S. Africa and Mozambique, from where the first shipments reached Europe in weeks 46 and 47 respectively, the sources started their campaigns early from week 45. The first batches sold at high prices for limited quantities. From the second half of November, volumes received became substantial and in excess of demand, dragging prices into a downward spiral. The downturn in tonnages from Madagascar from week 48 relieved the market, though the influx of merchandise from other sources, especially from Reunion, did not really allow rates to recover. The start of the Madagascan sea-freight campaign in week 49 also limited the sale of air-freight merchandise, public prices of which remained high. The implementation of promotions boosted sales, though their tempo was slower than that of the supply.
Madagascan sea-freight litchis were rated of exceptional quality, with good coloration, a good stage of maturity and good shelf life. Furthermore, the proportion of large sizes was higher than in previous years, and finally, the taste quality of the fruits earned unanimous recognition. This convergence of factors boosted the rapid sale of the first ship’s cargo, received on 5 December in Zeebrugge. The second ship arrived one week later (11 December), and entered the market shortly afterwards. The good uptake by the European distribution sector helped the marketing of the cargo of both ships, which was complete by the end of the year. Compared to previous seasons, Madagascan litchis enjoyed an additional week of sales thanks to the earliness of the campaign. Their rates dropped gradually, in line with the sale of large quantities. The majority of European distributors promoted this fruit on their shelves for the end-of-year festivities, at attractive prices which aided good sales of the product. Unimpeded by the weak competition from South Africa at the end of the year, the Madagascan litchis actually seem to have curbed sales of South African produce, due to their good overall quality and attractive prices.
Click "Continue" to continue shopping or "See your basket" to complete the order.
