Flemish strawberry sector sees improved profitability in 2026

The strawberry sector in Flanders is experiencing a positive period, according to the Boerenbond strawberry barometer. Following a downturn in 2022-2023, the sector is seeing improved profitability driven by high prices and strong yields.

In the first quarter of 2026, average prices at VBT auctions were up to 18% higher than the same period the previous year. While prices stabilized toward the long-term average in the second quarter and experienced a dip in June, overall production remained favorable. Supply at VBT auctions in the spring was approximately 5% higher than the previous year.

Boerenbond notes that while the general economic outlook is positive, significant differences in profitability remain between farms depending on their specific cultivation systems and strawberry varieties.