With a new crop season getting underway, Serbian IQF fruit producers are broadly optimistic about crop volumes, amid reports of crop reductions in competitor countries. If achieved, robust crop levels for raspberries and blackberries would be a significant change of outlook from 2025, when farms were hit by severe frost events that led to a major year-over-year (YOY) reduction in yields. Despite the positive outlook, market players maintain caution, noting that several factors remain uncertain.
Serbian crop volumes for both raspberries and blackberries are reportedly good, and sources estimate raspberry volumes at 60,000-65,000 metric tons (MT), a major turnaround from the crop losses of 2025, which stood at about 30,000 MT according to industry reports.
However, market sources state that a clear picture of raspberry and blackberry pricing for the season ahead is still yet to emerge, and crop and pricing dynamics in competitor countries are a key watch-out factor. Sources state that IQF fruit producers in Serbia are keenly awaiting indications of crop volumes and price levels in Poland and Ukraine.
Industry reports suggest that the recent heatwave events that hit much of Europe have reduced Poland’s raspberry crop yields to below expected levels, pressuring growers’ margins, which are reportedly already tight. In addition, an increase in pest challenges, also stemming from the high temperatures, has added further crop protection expenses. Sources speculate that a more challenging year for Poland may create opportunities for Serbian producers.
Indeed, market sources have already reported a surge in demand for Serbian IQF sour cherries. Participants suggest that crop volumes are decent, though quality is poor. However, prices for Serbian product are reportedly firming, as the market responds to substantial crop losses in the US and Poland.
While the industry maintains a wait-and-see approach, Expana Benchmark Prices (EBP) for Raspberry IQF whole 95% exw Serbia remained unchanged month over month, at €6.80/kg, as of June 30 (latest data), up 17% YOY.
Written by Craig Elliott
