After the very good artichoke harvest in 2025, there are some challenges for the current season.

Firstly, a look at Peru: as with other product groups, El Niño (the weather phenomenon is expected to begin there in March) could affect the cultivation and harvesting of artichokes. Rising temperatures in particular pose a problem, as an average of 15 degrees Celsius is optimal for artichoke plants and temperatures above 22 degrees are already associated with quality and harvest losses. For example, the 2023 harvest was 30 per cent lower than usual due to the effects of El Niño. Although it is not yet possible to make specific forecasts for the current season, persistent rain has already affected planting and fruit development.

Lower yields are also expected in Egypt - mainly due to the significantly smaller area under cultivation. Due to the good 2025 season, commodity prices fell so sharply that farmers decided against growing artichokes in 2026. The result: a 50 per cent smaller cultivation area than in the previous year. Experts expect 30 to 40 per cent less raw material and a price increase of 5 to 10 per cent.

The only positive forecasts we have received are from Spain. Despite above-average rainfall in January, the prospects are very good. While the harvest volume is estimated to be at a level comparable to 2025, the quality is expected to be even better than last year, according to our local expert. This applies not only to the flavour, but also to the texture and appearance of the flowers. The price level for Spanish artichokes is accordingly in the medium to high range.