Although the international environment is increasingly complex and production costs are rising, at Fruit Attraction, the international fruit and vegetable fair currently underway in Madrid, the pavilions and stands of the numerous Confagricoltura companies currently present in Spain are filled with buyers and operators who confirm the sector's vitality. This was highlighted by Paolo Mele, member of the Confagricoltura National Board, at the event organized on the evening of October 6 by the Italian Embassy dedicated to businesses during the trade show.

"With a production value of around €18 billion in 2025, although down from the previous year," Mele recalls, "the fruit and vegetable sector continues to account for about a quarter of total agricultural production. Exports now steadily exceed €12 billion, out of a total of just over €70 billion."

Fruit Attraction comes at a time of year when the summer fruit harvest, impacted by the weather, is wrapping up and the autumn harvest is in full swing: after grapes and kiwis, it's the turn of apples, pears, chestnuts, and pumpkins. These are sectors in which Italy plays a leading role internationally due to the quality of its produce. "However," adds Mele, "numerous concerns remain. Rising production costs for fuel, fertilizers, packaging, and logistics are compounded by persistent critical issues stemming from labor shortages and the continuing decline in effective pesticides."

On the climate front, this summer's prolonged heat has certainly impacted production, albeit with differences across regions and sectors. "The legislative framework for the post-2027 CAP reform is also complex, and to date, it remains unclear, starting with the actual availability of resources. Time is running out, and POs need clear rules to make decisions. On this issue, as on others," Mele concludes. "Confagricoltura has intervened to raise awareness among institutions about establishing a regulatory framework that will allow businesses to continue operating and investing."