Overview of Xylella outbreak response in Alicante and surrounding regions
The fight against Xylella fastidiosa in Alicante continues to evolve. Recent data indicate a noticeable acceleration in bacteria-control efforts after a period of slow progress, with authorities responding to EU scrutiny and the ongoing challenge of protecting olive and almond sectors. In the latest update, the scale of almond tree losses remains a dominant concern, while new cases are emerging in nearby municipalities as the bacterium spreads. The situation underscores the persistent threat to agriculture in parts of the Valencian Community and neighboring areas.
Xylella fastidiosa, one of the most harmful plant-pathogenic bacteria for Mediterranean crops, was first detected in Alicante in June 2017. Since then, the regional government has pursued an eradication plan that includes removing all trees within a 50-meter perimeter around confirmed infections. An audit by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety highlighted delays in implementing some measures, particularly in the removal of almond trees, and urged improvements where priority crops also require attention.
Since those findings, the landscape has shifted markedly. The latest ministry figures show that nearly 94,000 almond trees have been uprooted since the report was issued, bringing the total to about 187,400 trees affected globally since the outbreak began. In addition, thousands of infected plants have been removed as part of the containment strategy. The broader area under active monitoring continues to evolve as new inspections identify infections in previously unreported locales.
Hectares and affected municipalities
Data from the district department show a gradual expansion of the restricted area, now totaling roughly 139,459 hectares, an increase of about 1.1 percent since the prior update. Directly infected sites rose to just over 3,000, up about 5.7 percent. Samplings have confirmed the presence of the bacterium in a new municipality, Benimarfull, marking the first detection there. In total, sixty-two municipalities in Alicante Province are affected, with two municipalities in the Valencia region also reporting cases. Within Alicante, affected towns span districts including Marina Alta, Marina Baixa, l’Alcoià, El Comtat, and l’Alacantí, with Safor extending the reach into the Valencia region.
The overarching objective remains clear: halt the spread, protect uninfected trees, and minimize economic damage to farmers who rely on almonds and other crops. Local authorities emphasize that the response is multi-layered, combining surveillance, rapid removal of infected material, and incentives for replanting where feasible.
Brussels critique and regional progress
Brussels has urged the Consell to accelerate actions against Xylella and improve coordination across administrative levels. Regional Agriculture Minister Roger Llanes acknowledges progress in certain fronts and stresses that initial delays were tied to difficulties in identifying landowners and resolving more than 2,400 related appeals. He notes that once these obstacles were cleared, resources could be redirected to field operations, increasing the pace of containment.
Francisco Javier Molines, who leads a platform representing affected farmers, warns that many trees still need removal and warns that the plan to eradicate infected stock could have long-term consequences. He points out that the eventual outcome may require substantial land-use changes, as farmers face significant challenges in restarting operations after large-scale removals.
In parallel, the Ministry of Agriculture has commissioned a study from the Polytechnic University of Valencia to reassess compensation for farmers whose almond trees are uprooted. The current framework provides a maximum of 28 euros per isolated tree and 6,400 euros per hectare for larger areas. The study aims to refine compensation by accounting for replanting costs and the broader impact on farm livelihoods, with results expected to guide future policy adjustments.
Compensation discussions and ongoing support
The compensation discussion reflects a broader goal of ensuring farmers can recover without facing insurmountable financial barriers. Regional officials emphasize that the study will determine revised payment levels that better reflect the costs of reforestation and economic losses caused by the eradication program. While the path to increased compensation is under review, stakeholders agree on the need to balance immediate containment with long-term agricultural viability.
Overall, the situation remains dynamic. Authorities continue to monitor outbreaks, adjust eradication protocols, and coordinate with national and European partners to optimize resource use and minimize disruption to farming families. As the region advances its response, the focus remains on early detection, rapid removal of infected material, and equitable support for those who rely on almond crops for their livelihoods.
Citations are provided by health and agriculture authorities and are intended to offer an evidence-based, transparent account of the evolving outbreak response. The information reflects ongoing regional efforts to manage Xylella fastidiosa and protect agricultural production in Alicante and adjacent areas.