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Organic hazelnuts: Neglect and abuse

November 1, 2016 at 1:19 PM , Der AUDITOR
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SOFIA. Neglect and abuse are posing enormous problems in Bulgaria. Although market participants may be disappointed, there still are high expectations.

High expectations
Over the last few years, more and more farmers in Bulgaria have invested in the cultivation of hazelnuts. In 2014 acreage, for instance reached 2.140 ha, an increase of 300 ha as compared to 2013. This increase raised expectations of a substantial and sustainable increase in supply.

Misplaced hopes
Unfortunately, several growers cultivate land and receive government subsidies, but let the majority of the crops die on the bush. Nevertheless, there are quite a few farmers who cultivate land specifically to produce and process hazelnuts. In addition, it takes some years before the crop is certified as organic. But every year, more and more farmers are receiving such a certificate. The incentives are clear since the prices for organic kernels are higher. However, the ultimate goal is still a far way off. Till the supply momentum is reached, the gap between supply and demand will continue to be filled in by foreign imports, mainly coming from Turkey.

 

Organic hazelnuts, Bulgaria

Type

EUR/kg

in shell

6.5-6.8

natural kernels 9-11

10.30-10.70

natural kernels 11-13

10.50-11.00

natural kernels 13-15

10.80-12.00

hazelnut paste

14.00

roasted kernels 13-15

14.30

EXW Bulgaria

 

Hazelnuts, Bulgaria

Type

EUR/kg

in shell

3.50

natural kernels 9-11

8.00

natural kernels 11-13

8.00

natural kernels 13-15

8.00

hazelnut paste

11.30

roasted kernels 13-15

11.00

EXW Bulgaria

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