Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the import of fruits and vegetables were hindered this spring. Although the logistical issues have since been solved, the share of import produce on the market in Hungary will probably drop to under 5% by the end of May.
There is 3500 ha of covered production area dedicated to fruit and vegetable production in Hungary, heated greenhouses making up 450 ha. These greenhouses produce an annual 430 thousand metric tons of produce, out of which 180-185 thousand tons is regular (sweet) peppers (capsicum annuum), 125-130 thousand tons are tomatoes, 35-37 thousand are cucumber, and there is also a considerable amount of cabbages and lettuce.
The export season of Hungarian fruits and vegetables starts in June. On average, Hungary exports 22-26 thousand tons of peppers, 12-15 thousand tons of tomatoes, and 2-3 thousand tons of cucumber as well as 6-7 thousand tons of cabbage primarily to Scandinavia.
Prices have increased by 1-10% in the fruit and vegetable sector this season. The net annual output of this industry is worth HUF 270-300 billion (€770-860 million).
Source: Agroberichten Buitenland.