WAPA forecasts EU pear and apple output increase for 2026

The World Apple and Pear Association (WAPA) released its 2026 production forecast at the Prognosfruit conference. EU pear harvest is projected at 1.95 million tonnes, about 5.5 % higher than the previous year and 9.9 % above the three‑year average. The Netherlands will lead with roughly 393 000 t, followed by Belgium (364 000 t) and Italy (347 000 t). Spain, Portugal and France are also expected to harvest 242 000 t, 138 000 t and 132 000 t respectively. The dominant Conference variety should reach 906 000 t, a 2.1 % rise.

Apple production in the EU is forecast to fall 15.6 % to 9.5 million tonnes, 14.3 % below the recent three‑year average. Major declines are seen in Poland (down 30 %) and Austria (down 35 %). Croatia, however, anticipates a 33 % increase in its apple crop, reaching about 64 000 t.