The area under berry cultivation in Huelva for the 2025 campaign will increase by 4% compared to the previous year, exceeding 12.000 hectares, according to estimates by the Association of Producers and Exporters of Strawberries in Huelva, Freshuelva, an increase that has been due to the growth of hectares of strawberries (+2%), blueberries (+4%) and blackberries (+18%), while raspberries have recovered 2022 levels after two years of decline.

With the red fruit planting period over, the Association of Producers and Exporters of Strawberries from Huelva, Freshuelva, integrated in FEPEX, estimates that, looking ahead to the 2025 campaign, the strawberry surface area will increase by 2%, reaching 6.432 hectares.

However, this growth has been accompanied by challenges, such as the problem of soil disinfection in nurseries, which has caused a high mortality rate of plants after the initial planting. This has forced the replanting of between 15% and 20% of the crop, in some cases, prolonging this process until the end of November. Although these difficulties mean an increase in planting costs and a possible delay in the ripening of the fruit, recent rains have favoured the development of the plantations.

As for raspberries, there is a notable increase of 9,5%, reaching 1.930 hectares, which represents a recovery to 2022 levels after two campaigns of decline.

This crop, characterized by its varietal diversity, can be harvested both in autumn and spring, maximizing its profitability and market presence.

The area of ​​blackberry has seen the greatest percentage growth, with an increase of 18% compared to 2024, reaching 168 hectares. This growth is driven by the introduction of new varieties that are widely accepted in European and national markets, consolidating this crop as a booming option.

Blueberries, with a 4% growth, have become the second most important berry in the province of Huelva, reaching 3.744 hectares. Varietal diversification allows the harvest to begin in December, gaining competitiveness compared to South American production and expanding its presence in emerging European markets.

However, it faces increasing competition from third countries, especially in spring production.

For Freshuelva, an association that brings together more than 95% of the production and marketing of red fruits in Huelva, a province that is also the main producer in Spain, the general increase in the cultivated area demonstrates the resilience of the sector in the face of production and commercial challenges. Varietal innovation and improvements in agricultural management are key to maintaining the competitiveness of Huelva's red fruits in national and international markets.