The main pear growing regions of Argentina, the world's largest exporter of the fruit, will have a smaller harvest in 2001-02 as trees recover from a heavy volume year this past season.
According to Carlos Mariano Chehin of exporter San Miguel, writing in Argentinean daily La Gaceta, an exceptionally long season has not allowed trees to rest. This situation is also affecting apple trees.
Rainfall was heavier and more abundant than usual this spring, which has had an impact on trees at flowering. And, warns Mariano, difficult economic conditions for growers in the south of Argentina could have a knock on effect on fruit quality as producers struggle to carry out essential tasks in their orchards.
The leading top-fruit production areas of Argentina are Río Negro and Neuquén towards the south of the country.
The pear harvest usually starts in mid-January with Williams with Packhams available later in the season.
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