Spanish Group SanLucar is currently developing the first large scale raspberry plantation in Tunisia, partly with funding from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), with a sum of 4 million Euro. This fruit is mainly exported to Europe and the Middle East.
“Tunisia is a country with great potential in terms of horticultural development,” said Michael Brinkmann, chief financial officer at SanLucar.
“We are constantly looking for the best production areas worldwide and Tunisia offers very attractive conditions, including its warm weather and proximity to Europe. This makes the country interesting for an investment in the development of a modern and sustainable agriculture,” he affirms.
“Flor’alia Farm owns a plantation in Tunisia with great prospects, and as a result of this new project we’ll be able to introduce new varieties, expand and modernise our production,” continues Brinkmann.
SanLucar has already been growing raspberries in Tunisia for two seasons and is currently working on the implementation of approximately 30 new hectares. The goal for Flor’Alia’s farms is to reach a total of 70 hectares.
Meanwhile, they continue experimenting with blueberries, strawberries and grapes. “In the near future, we are likely to continue developing more berry plantations in Tunisia,” pointed out Michael Brinkmann.
“Another advantage we had this year is the ability to export directly to Russia in summer, besides being closer to the markets of the Persian Gulf, such as Dubai or Abu Dhabi, where demand is increasing,” he says.
For the choice of raspberry varieties, SanLucar works closely with institutions such as Plant Sciences International or Planasa. The production period in Tunisia extends from October to June.
