Czech farmers, particularly fruit growers, are expressing concerns about the retail prices of apples, with the Union of Southern and Western Czech Fruit Growers highlighting that the current retail price per kilogram of apples is disproportionately high. Despite a wholesale price ranging from 13 to 14 Czech korunas, retail chains are selling apples for 50 to 60 korunas per kilogram.

The Union anticipates an apple harvest of nearly 8,000 tons in the southern and western regions of the Czech Republic this year, marking a decline of around ten percent compared to the previous year. This decrease is attributed to frost damage and the decreasing number of orchards in the country.

According to the Union, the wholesale price of apples is already at the threshold for covering the costs incurred by fruit growers. However, the rising costs do not appear to be reflected in the retail prices set by the chains. Such pricing dynamics could have a notable impact on consumer demand. The Union warns that the present retail prices are unsustainable, as it is not viable for fruit growers to sell apples at a considerably lower price to retail chains, only to see them resold at much higher rates.

Fruit growers are also grappling with increasing electricity prices, a significant concern during the storage of apples at the required temperature of three degrees Celsius.

Despite a decrease in apple tree cultivation, many Czech farmers remain committed to the industry. However, they are exploring avenues to cut costs, including opting for mechanized harvesting of cherries and plums, which is less labor-intensive compared to apple cultivation.

While the decline in orchards may not appear substantial, experts caution that the rate of new orchard plantations is insufficient to compensate for the losses. This issue could potentially lead to a critical shortage of apples in the future, further driving up prices.

The Czech Republic boasts a rich history of apple cultivation, with the southern regions of Chelčice, Krtely, and Lhenice being the primary growing areas. These regions have been supplying apples to the imperial court in Vienna since the mid-19th century. Presently, the Union of Southern and Western Czech Fruit Growers, consisting of around 50 members overseeing nearly 1,000 hectares of orchards and 10 hectares of fruit tree nurseries, primarily cultivates apples, cherries, plums, currants, pears, and strawberries.

The concerns raised by the Union of Southern and Western Czech Fruit Growers underscore the challenges confronted by small-scale farmers in the country, emphasizing the necessity for more sustainable and equitable practices within the agricultural sector.

Article by Prague Forum