Punished Alicante cherry production faces challenges from rising air mishaps and a weakening of insurance protections. The forecast of rain and frost in the coming months adds to the uncertainty. If this trend continues, the sector may be forced to adjust how it measures damage, moving from parcel-based assessment to a broader production-based approach starting in 2024.
In light of the importance of this emblematic crop for the city, the cherry industry, with support from Asaja Alicante, has long pressed for stronger insurance coverage. Yet the latest terms proposed in the collaboration between the State Agricultural Insurance Agency (Enesa) and Agroseguro have markedly reduced coverage for the upcoming year.
Cherry growers expect a strong campaign after years of hardship
The current proposal for the cherry line reflects a broader failure by Enesa and the Ministry of Agriculture to adapt to rising incident rates and climate change. This mismatch risks leaving producers vulnerable and undermines confidence in the sector. Alicante’s cherry diversity, already threatened by several years of low yields, faces additional pressure, endangering livelihoods and regional agricultural heritage.
Antonio Gascón, a representative of Asaja Alicante Agricultural Insurance, commented: “This shift in coverage creates uncertainty for insured growers and elevates their exposure to risk.”
Comprehensive review
Cherry is a special fruit with many varieties and a wide range of producers. Under the new rules, those who suffer damage to land may see compensation reduced, and some claims may not receive full reimbursement. This change could leave many growers with substantial shortfalls when disasters strike.
The Alicante cherry sector has already felt the strain as conditions for producers deteriorate. Asaja Alicante therefore urges a reassessment at the national level. The Ministry of Agriculture should engage with Enesa to pursue fairer terms for farmers in the face of climate-related risks and ensure a more resilient insurance framework.
Finally, the association calls on Enesa to avoid acting as a private interest group seeking economic gain. The priority must be safeguarding small and medium producers. Without proper coverage, many growers may forgo insuring their land, which would worsen conditions by pushing premiums higher and leaving protections insufficient when they are most needed.