The Huelva Strawberry Growers and Exporters Association has reported an increase in planted berry hectarage ahead of the 2018-19 season, which should begin in late December.

In Freshuelva, which represents growers in the leading production region, the area planted with berries now 11,464 hectares, marking year-on-year growth of 3%.

Blueberries saw the biggest increase, growing by 7% to 3,059 hectares.

Freshuelva pointed out that "we must bear in mind that it is a bush that starts commercial production in the third year, which means that not all plants will enter into production this season".

Meanwhile, the strawberry planted area rose by 3.5% to 6,095MT, while the raspberry area fell by 3% to 2,150. Blackberries fell to 160 hectares, which is 20 hectares less year-on-year.

Freshuelva also noted there had been some issues with shipments of early fruit to France, due to the protests over the rising fuel prices.