The traditional "first symbolic harvest" of artichokes took place

The traditional "first symbolic harvest" of artichokes took place in Vega Baja del Segura, officially opening the 2025/2026 season. The event was hosted by Antonio Ángel Hurtado, President of the Vega Baja del Segura Artichoke Association, with Antonio Galindo representing the España Artichoke Association. The organizers noted improved quality and stable demand for the product.

As of the 2025/2026 campaign, the artichoke area in Vega Baja has grown to approximately 2,500 hectares—an increase of approximately 1,000 hectares over the past ten years and approximately 200 hectares (+10%) compared to the previous season, as confirmed by local associations and trade publications. This is due to the crop's profitability and quality promotion measures.

According to industry sources, Vega Baja's expected gross production could exceed 25,000 tons this season. The growing acreage and favorable agroclimatic conditions support such forecasts. Associations emphasize that the modernization of the assortment base and export channels support demand both domestically and for export.

Spain's annual artichoke production is estimated at approximately 200,000–220,000 tons, making the country one of the world's leading producers; the main export potential is concentrated in the regions of Murcia, Valencia, and Alicante. Official statistics from the Ministry of Agriculture confirm the dynamics of acreage, yield, and prices in the vegetable growing subsectors.

For the local economy, artichokes remain an important source of income: in addition to direct sales, the development of the "Alcachofa de la Vega Baja" brand stimulates agritourism and added value through processing and gastronomic initiatives, according to representatives of the council and industry associations.