Arabfields, Giulia Alliata, Economic Correspondent, Italia — Portugal’s Rocha pear sector is heading into a stronger 2026 season, with production in the Oeste region forecast to reach 131,000 tonnes, about 13 per cent more than the previous crop.

The harvest started earlier than usual this year after a period of high temperatures accelerated fruit development. Producers normally begin picking around 15 August, but the first Rocha pears were harvested earlier this week as growers responded to faster ripening in orchards across the region.

For growers, the early start brings both opportunities and pressure. Larger fruit and good sugar levels are helping improve the commercial outlook, according to Filipe Ribeiro, president of the National Association of Rocha Pear Producers. At the same time, high temperatures have caused some sunscald, although the damage is considered less serious than it was two years ago.

The expected increase is particularly notable because Portugal’s Rocha pear production area has been shrinking. The cultivated area has fallen from 11,325 hectares in 2020 to around 10,000 hectares today, a reduction of roughly 12 per cent. The 2026 production forecast therefore points to stronger output from a smaller growing base.

Disease remains one of the main concerns for producers. Fire blight and Stemphylium leaf spot continue to affect orchards, while restrictions on some plant protection products have made disease management more difficult. Researchers and industry representatives are consequently looking at more resistant planting material and alternative control methods.

Labour is another issue that could influence the final result. Seasonal workers are essential during the harvest, yet producers continue to report difficulties finding enough people. Slower recruitment and entry procedures for migrant workers could create additional pressure if the crop reaches the expected 131,000 tonnes.

The export market will be central to the season. Around 58 per cent of Rocha pear production is normally exported, meaning that a crop of 131,000 tonnes could translate into approximately 76,000 tonnes available for overseas markets if the same export share is maintained. Brazil, Germany, the United Kingdom, Morocco and France remain important destinations for Portuguese pears.

Looking ahead, the 2026 figures suggest that Portugal could maintain relatively high Rocha pear supplies in the near term, provided weather conditions remain manageable through the remainder of the harvest. Higher fruit size and sugar levels could support demand, while the sector’s export orientation gives producers access to several international markets.

However, the longer-term outlook will depend less on expanding acreage and more on productivity, climate resilience and labour availability. With the production area already smaller than it was in 2020, maintaining or increasing output will require growers to make better use of existing orchards.

For growers preparing to bring the season’s crop to market, the challenge is now to turn a promising forecast into a successful commercial year. The combination of higher expected production, earlier harvesting and strong fruit quality offers encouragement, but heat, disease and labour shortages remain factors that could still shape the final outcome.