The financial and economic crisis has already had a significant negative impact on export levels, profit margins and employment in the fruit and vegetables sector in developing countries. Exports from developing countries (DCs) are under pressure, especially from importers in Europe using their market power to cut prices.
However, the sector is also suffering from declining demand for more expensive varieties of tropical fruit and vegetables, off-season products and recently introduced varieties. The decreased demand for products produced outside the European growing season may face further pressure from European consumers and their growing awareness of the carbon footprint of these products.
Publication date: April, 2009
