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Mites are considered to be among the most dangerous of orchard pests.
Every season a large number of species of phytophagous mites affect fruit
plants around the world causing significant economic losses to growers.
The application of acaricides is a critical tool in their control. In 2020 the
acaricide market in Europe was worth around 100M€. Fruit, Vegetables and
Vines represent almost 97% of total European acaricides sales. Looking
more closely at the Fruit and Vegetables segment, the biggest market is in
southern Europe with Spain and Italy reaching 63% of the total European
acaricide market. The Netherlands and Germany are the most important
markets for acaricides in Fruit and Vegetables in central Europe.
In terms of area, almost 65% of the EU super developed area (SDA) is in
orchards and soft fruits (citrus, pome fruits, stone fruits and raspberries)
confirming the importance of acaricides for fruit crops. Citrus represents
by far the biggest market in Europe with 26% of the total European acaricide
SDA. The European acaricide segment is quite a crowded one with numerous
active ingredients registered. Nevertheless, the competitor landscape is
changing with many actives facing regulatory limitations and some others
already banned. This will create space in the marketplace and there will
be growth opportunities for the reinforced Belchim acaricide portfolio,
together with the Certis Europe offer.
The importance of acaricides in fruit production
Filippo Urbinati, Crop Manager Fruits
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