Greece Expects More Raisins in 2006/07

WASHINGTON - Jun 4/06 - SNS -- Raisin production slipped in Greece across the 2005-06 marketing year, according to the Sultana Cooperative Organizations, (KSOS) in Crete and Peloponnese.

The say output slipped from 29,000 metric tons (MT) in 2004-05 to 28,000 MT last season, because dry weather conditions during the summer of 2005 resulted in less fruit.

However, this year's weather conditions are significantly better and the industry expects raisin output in Greece to rebound to around 30,500 MT "if favorable weather conditions prevail until the end of the growing period," according to the U.S. agricultural attache for the country.

"Current weather conditions, on the island of Crete, where the largest percentage of Greek dry sultanas are produced, have been excellent. Farmers are optimistic for a good harvest, however summer temperatures will play the decisive role."

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