Growers are understood to be facing another challenging year, with production well below its potential
Portugal’s iconic Rocha pear harvest remains notably smaller than it could be for the fourth consecutive year, as growers continue to deal with poor weather and increased production costs.
ANP Pera Rocha, the association which brings together the majority of the country’s Rocha pear growers, said its members expected a total volume of just below 116,000 tonnes in 2025.
That would be practically the same as the country produced in 2024, but about half the volume it had to sell in 2021.
Total production nationwide, meanwhile, is estimated at 129,000 tonnes. “This marks the fourth consecutive year of production below potential, mainly due to adverse weather conditions and unprecedented phytosanitary challenges, which also increased production costs,” the group said.
Harvested stock is said to be composed mainly of smaller sizes, with around 60 per cent of the fruit measuring 60mm or less, and less than 20 per cent above 65mm.
“Despite these challenges, ANP remains committed to supplying traditional markets with the quality of [the certification scheme] DOP Pera Rocha do Oeste, while ensuring the long-term sustainability of its producers.”
