Argentina (Jujuy): Frost losses in potato crops could reach 60%.
In the Valle de los Pericos, low temperatures caused damage to the production of potatoes, zucchini, green beans, and strawberries.
Producers in the Valle de los Pericos report severe damage to their fruit and vegetable crops due to frost caused by the cold snap that hit the province.
Producers say that potato losses could reach 60%. Added to the frost is the fact that planting began late, only in late March, due to summer rains. This will affect the size of the potatoes harvested in the area, which will be small to medium-sized.
As for zucchini and green beans, the losses could be total because these plants are hypersensitive to low temperatures. "I dare say that nothing is left in the Valle de los Pericos," said producer Sergio Leaño.
As for strawberries, some producers managed to protect their crops with thermal blankets, which allowed them to save their production. Meanwhile, the plants left exposed to the elements were severely affected.
Frost increases
Due to the frost, growers anticipate higher prices for some vegetable products such as chard, parsley, and carrots. "A week ago, a bunch of chard cost $1,000, and now it sells for $3,000. Lettuce sold for $3,000, and now it’s up to $5,000," Leaño added.
Currently, the potatoes sold in Jujuy come from Catamarca and Balcarce, so the price of that product will not increase.
As for corn, a 50-count bag was selling for $12,000 a few weeks ago, and has now reached $45,000. A sharp rise in tomato prices is also expected.
Producers are targeting intermediaries, especially wholesalers, who set prices and make larger profits. "There are retailers who use the frost as an excuse to impose steep price increases that are often unjustified," Sergio Leaño concluded.
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