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Tough year for Mallorcan farmers
Bad weather and the high cost of fuel are being blamed for low margins in the agricultural sector this year. Production is down for almost all crop and livestock in the Balearics, although the numbers employed in the industry remain steady at around 7,100 workers. The potato crop has been most affected with production down by a third when compared to last year.
Almond production continues to decline with an estimated yield of 2,800 tons this year, which is 60% of the maximum yield. The low price of almonds has contributed to this decline and it is thought that many farmers will choose not to harvest the total crop. Cereal crops were most affected by bad weather and are also down by a third. Olives are due to be harvested in late October and it is expected that there will be an increase in yield due to increased planting in Es Pla - the fertile plain to the east of the Tramuntana mountains.
Pig farming (Porcella) continues to struggle as prices fluctuate and sheep farmers expect a 30% drop over the next three years.
Organic farming remains a growth industry, however figures are somewhat distorted by government grants.
