After an initially challenging start to the season, the French tomato market is demonstrating promising signs of recovery. Guilhem Flammen, manager of Les Tomates du Mont Saint-Michel, offers insight into the current dynamics of the market, noting an increase in consumption and a more balanced production outlook.
Market Price Trends
Recent data indicates a significant rebound in tomato prices. According to Flammen, “Prices have risen sharply since the beginning of the week. On Monday, 10kg of cluster tomatoes were sold at 0.90 euro [0.98 USD], but by the end of the week, the price had reached 1.30 euro [1.42 USD].” This rise in prices, typically observed before the 14th of July, was delayed this year but has now aligned with market trends.
Production Challenges Due to High Temperatures
Despite the positive price trend, production challenges loom due to forecasted high temperatures. “High temperatures are expected, especially around the Mediterranean,” Flammen explains. This weather pattern is likely to intensify demand in these regions while simultaneously causing production losses, particularly for tomatoes grown in tunnels, shelters, or open fields. The heat can severely impact these crops, leading to reduced volumes.
Optimistic Outlook for the Season’s End
Looking ahead, Flammen remains cautiously optimistic. “I am relatively positive about the end of the season. We are fortunate to have a greenhouse production system in Normandy, where heat peaks are more moderate.” He hopes that prices will remain above 1.20 euro [1.31 USD] through the end of summer, which would help compensate for the difficult start to the season and provide better returns for producers.
In conclusion, while the French tomato market faces production hurdles due to high temperatures, the recovery in prices and the strategic use of greenhouse cultivation provide a hopeful outlook for the remainder of the season.
