The 2025/2026 horticultural campaign in the Province of Almería was marked by adverse weather conditions, increased production costs, and a high incidence of pests such as Thrips parvispinus, aphids, and red spider mites. These factors affected various crops, particularly lettuce, peppers, and zucchini.
Despite the difficulties, export data up to May 1st demonstrate the resilience of Almería's horticultural sector. Although export volume decreased by 1.55% to 1.84 million tons, the economic value of foreign sales rose to 3.334 million euros, an 11% increase compared to the previous campaign.
Bell peppers remain the province's leading export product, with 464,000 tons commercialized and a value of 1.114 million euros, an 8% increase. Cucumbers rank second, with 490,000 tons and a value of 831 million euros, a 22% growth. Tomatoes, the third most significant product, exported 314,000 tons valued at 593 million euros, a 4% increase.
Other crops also show positive value evolution. Zucchini reached 368 million euros (+5%), eggplant saw growth exceeding 23% with 216 million euros, and lettuce, despite damage from storms and aphids in the Levante Almeriense region, grew 21% in value to 172 million euros.
Spring crops, such as watermelons and melons, began their campaign in April with exports of 35 million and 4.5 million euros respectively; these figures do not yet allow for a representative comparative analysis.
The territorial delegate for Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development in Almería, Antonio Mena, described the campaign as having "very complex circumstances" due to climatic, cost, and sanitary factors. He highlighted the sector's adaptability and assured that the Junta de Andalucía will continue working on plant health, biological control, and innovation to strengthen the leadership of Almería's agriculture in international markets.
