Belgian pear sector focuses on innovation to combat climate and pest pressures

The Belgian pear sector, which relies heavily on the Conference variety, is facing increasing pressures from climate change, water availability, labor shortages, and limited crop protection products. To address these challenges, the industry is focusing on innovation across research, cultivation, storage, and trade.

During a press trip organized by VLAM for Italian journalists, the Belgian fruit industry highlighted its value proposition for the Italian market. Representatives from pcfruit, including Director Dany Bylemans, demonstrated how research is being diversified to support both producers and distributors. Current research efforts integrate plant physiology, crop management, precision agriculture, and technology.

A key priority is finding alternatives to chemical crop protection to combat new and invasive pests and diseases, such as Stemphylium. Experts emphasize that while technology is being introduced, research must also ensure the economic viability for growers, focusing on what remains profitable for the producer.